solo female travel mexico

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Mexico , Solo travel

Solo female travel in mexico (2024) – a complete guide.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

If you’re unsure about solo travel in Mexico, I’m here to guide you, answer any questions you may have and, hopefully, persuade you! I understand what travelling to Mexico alone as a woman is like: I spent six months backpacking here in 2019, starting by travelling to Mexico City alone , and returned to live here in 2022. Now, it’s 2024 and I’m still here!

MEXICO ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld / Airbnb Copy of Lonely Planet Mexico Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Food tours: Eatwith Getting around: Rentalcars.com / Busbud Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

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Is Mexico safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, Mexico is safe for solo female travellers. I’ve recently put together guides on solo female travel in South Africa and solo female travel in India . Although I loved travelling in both places, I’ll admit they have their safety concerns. I’m not saying nothing bad ever happens in Mexico but I am saying that it’s overall a fantastic place to travel solo with far fewer concerns for females than either India or South Africa. As long as you are sensible, it is safe to solo travel in Mexico .

For first-time solo female travellers , I’d always suggest starting out somewhere easy like Europe or Southeast Asia. In an ideal world, I’d say save Mexico until you’ve got your confidence up in those places. However, if you’re really keen to, it’s still doable for a first-timer if you have your wits about you and follow advice. If you’ve travelled alone before then you’ll have no issues. I hope these solo female travel tips for Mexico will guide you during your trip.

Read next: everything to know about safety while travelling alone as a woman

Good things about solo travel in Mexico

1. It’s a popular place with foreign travellers so you’ll meet loads of other people doing the same thing as you. 2. There are hostels in abundance so you’ll always have a safety net during solo female travel in Mexico. Hostels are a great way to make new friends which is one of the best things about travelling solo in my opinion! 3. It’s affordable. You don’t have to worry about blowing the budget by booking a hotel room for one.

Challenging things about solo travel in Mexico

1. In the same way as solo travel in Cuba , it’s tricky to get by if you don’t speak Spanish. But it’s not game over: download the Google Translate app and pack a Latin American Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary . 2. People have a tendency to be negative about travel to Mexico (mainly as a result of US media I think). One of the problems with solo female travel is people critiquing your decision to travel somewhere alone. Ignore female travel myths about Mexico and stick to your guns; you got this!

Let’s get this out of the way: I hate people banging on about cartels and drugs. I find TV shows and Netflix series from the US so small-minded when depicting Mexican people. Areas of Mexico with cartels and issues relating to the drugs trade are far removed from tourist areas. They’re typically in the Northern states where you’ll have no reason to visit since they don’t have any tourist attractions. Around Central and Southern Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula, there’s a clear tourist trail with countless safe and charming towns and cities. Basically, don’t stress about issues that won’t affect you in areas you won’t go to!

Read next: is solo female travel worth it?

In terms of minor crimes like pickpocketing , yes there is a bit of this. It usually occurs in busy and crowded areas like markets. When it comes to solo female travel in Mexico City, there are areas you’ll want to avoid, as well as areas where you should go while keeping an eye on your bag. It’s nothing that doesn’t exist around major cities in Asia, Europe and the US. In answer to the question, is Mexico safe? , well no – nowhere in the world is truly 100% safe. There are always threats to women (even without them leaving their homes). However, in terms of your solo trip to Mexico, there are no threats so severe that you can’t have a fantastic and trouble-free trip. I’m proof of that!

Tours in Mexico

Not quite ready for solo travel in Mexico? There are pros and cons to group tours vs solo trave l but they certainly offer extra security. One option is to take a short introductory tour then go solo afterwards. My favourite tour operator is G Adventures , an ethical company partnering with locals. They offer 18-30-something tours which are fast-paced and budget-friendly, as well as classic tours and National Geographic adventures.

How to get around in Mexico

Mexico is an easy country to travel internally. The best ways for solo female travellers in Mexico to get around include: Buses – I’ve always been impressed with the bus network in Mexico. There are a few main networks like ADO which are pretty upmarket. Your ticket usually includes snacks, a drink and access to an entertainment service via the screens on the back of each seat. Bus travel isn’t as cheap as travelling solo in Southeast Asia ; a 4-hour bus usually averages around $40.

To book buses in Mexico, I use Busbud .

Colectivos – these mini vans are an affordable, local option that you can take for short distances. Knowing some Spanish will go a long way when using these. Internal flights – these are really cheap in Mexico, sometimes cheaper than buses. I generally avoid flying internally for environmental reasons but sometimes it’s too tempting. Coming back to Mexico City from Oaxaca, it was a choice between a $40 two-hour flight or a $60 bus that would take 18 hours. There are several budget airlines in Mexico like Viva Aerobus (which I have dubbed the Ryanair of Mexico), Volaris and Aeroméxico. I use Skyscanner to compare and book flights.

BlaBlaCar – some people may have safety reservations about shared car rides but I’ve personally taken BlaBlaCar while travelling as a solo female in Mexico and felt safe. I’ve travelled from Mexico City to Guadalajara, Tepoztlán and Queretaro and each time I made friends with the drivers and saved money compared to the bus.

Taxis – in cities, always take Uber when you can. The regular taxis in Mexico City don’t have the best safety reputation, plus they’re more expensive than Uber. I always take Uber or UberPool as soon as it gets dark in Mexico.

Accommodation for female travellers in Mexico

Mexico has abundant options when it comes to accommodation. You’ll find options for all budgets and styles from backpacker hostels to resorts and 5* hotels. Here’s a quick review of the best types of accommodation for solo travel in Mexico. Hostels: Mexico has plenty of decent hostels; you’ll find several in each city. These are colourful and comfy places to meet other people when travelling solo . Some of my favourite hostels include Casa de Dante in Guanajuato, Hostal Hospedarte in Guadalajara, Hostal Central in Oaxaca, Tower Bridge in Puerto Escondido, Casa Esterito in La Paz, Viajero in Sayulita, Posada del Abuelito in San Cristobal… And many more! Airbnbs: There’s so much choice when it comes to Airbnbs in Mexico and you’ll great value. The hosts I’ve stayed with have been incredibly friendly and taken me around on tours and to their favourite restaurants. Hotels: I’m not much of a hotel person but there are plenty of great options if you prefer the comfort of a hotel over hostels. Browse options on Booking.com . I use this booking platform a lot as they also have private apartments and hostels; it’s a great way to browse all the options in one go. After a few bookings, you qualify for discounts, free breakfasts and room upgrades. Housesitting – for free accommodation, housesitting in Mexico is a great idea! The premise here is that you stay in a local’s home while they’re out of town. In exchange for looking after their home and sometimes pets, you get a cosy home from home! Read my review of TrustedHousesitters for more about this platform.

How to dress for solo travel in Mexico

There’s no strict dress code for solo female travel in Mexico. Like anywhere, the more conservative you dress, the less attention you’ll receive. In Mexico City, locals tend to wear jeans and puffer jackets even in weather I’d describe as warm. It’s just a different perception of the temperature. Nothing bad will happen if you wear shorts and dresses but you’ll look like a tourist. It depends how much you want to blend in. When it comes to beach areas and more touristic places like Tulum, you can really wear whatever you want. It’s warm so I’d suggest whatever you wear at the beach at home.

Packing for female travel in Mexico

The first Mexico packing tip that might surprise you – Mexico isn’t always hot! Or even mild. Sometimes it can be downright cold especially in hilly regions of Central Mexico. I remember falling asleep watching my breath on the air in Guanajuato and cursing my lack of extra layers. The same can be said for Mexico City which drops below 0 in the winter months. Knowing what to pack for Cancun won’t help you in the capital! Make sure to pack jeans and a jacket unless you’re visiting in the summer or sticking to the Yucatan Peninsular. It’s easy to get laundry done in Airbnbs and lavanderia (laundrettes) so don’t pack too much. This is my recommended packing list for a week’s female travel in Mexico:

• 1 x casual dress
• 1 x jacket / sweater
• 3 x shoes: comfortable city shoes, sandals and beach shoes
• 1 x night out outfit
• 2 x swimwear
• 1 x beach shoes
• 7 x underwear.

SIMs and internet in Mexico

Although your accommodation and every cafe in town will have Wi-Fi (and there’s decent free city Wi-Fi you can connect to), I always get a SIM card when travelling so I can guarantee I can get a safe Uber ride home at night etc. Getting a SIM card is easy. Just walk into any OXXO store and ask for a SIM with credit (Telcel and OXXO SIM are reliable options). I pay 150 pesos for a month’s data and calls, but there are packages from 50 pesos. A little bit of Spanish will help you with this transaction or, failing that, use the Google Translate app to show the cashier what you want. Alternatively, get an e-SIM before you arrive with Airalo . This is an e-SIM platform covering 200+ regions and my new favourite app! Browse their Mexico packages so you’re connected as soon as you land.

Best time of year to visit Mexico

While it depends on your destination, the best time to visit Mexico is usually considered November to April. Temperatures are manageable and there’s almost no rain. From April, temperatures pick up before the rainy summer months. Rains can be quite severe and tail off by September. If you don’t mind the rain, you can still visit through this season. Everything is beautifully lush and green. If you’re not a fan of spring breakers and higher prices, avoid touristic areas like Cancun during March and April. You should also check if you’re visiting during a Mexican national holiday. During these, popular towns and cities are so packed you can barely move!

Safety tips for solo female travel in Mexico

Don’t walk at night.

As a general rule, it’s best not to walk alone at night in Mexico. In places like Oaxaca and safe neighbourhoods like Condesa in Mexico City, you’ll likely be fine but it’s best to air on the side of caution. Hop in an Uber once it gets dark.

Get travel insurance

An essential for solo travel in Mexico (and anywhere for that matter) is travel insurance. I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) which covers both gadgets and pre-existing conditions. They’ll still insure you if you’re already travelling which is quite rare. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .

Check neighbourhoods before visiting

Have a general idea of your surroundings. For example, there are some neighbourhoods to avoid in Mexico City like Doctores. While it’s unlikely you’ll wander into them as they’re generally far from tourist areas, it’s best to be safe. The same goes for other areas of Mexico. You’re never going to accidentally stumble 500 miles into a cartel area but it can’t hurt to Google a new city’s safety ranking before visiting.

Don’t drink tap water

You’re likely to get very sick if you drink tap water in Mexico. Instead, buy bottles and check they’re sealed or, better for environmental reasons, bring a reusable water bottle that you can fill up with filtered water (your accommodation will have this) or a filtering water bottle which sterilizes water for safe consumption.

Food and sanitation

I can’t lie – I mainly included this section to talk about all my favourite Mexican foods ! It’s such a fantastic cuisine and totally different to the Westernised version of Mexican food I’d tried in the UK. It’s not all about tacos either; there are so many other delicious dishes to try like tostadas, tortas, flautas, gorditas, tamales, churros and more.

If you’re on a short solo trip, it can be hard to squeeze in all the different dishes. I’d suggest signing up for a food tour so you get to try a bit of everything! Take a food tour in Colonia Roma or an adventurous San Juan and Merced markets food tour. My Mexico City food blogs:

• Where to eat in Roma & Condesa
• Where to eat in Coyoacan
• Eat Like a Local tour review
• Aura Cocina cooking class review

In terms of food safety, I would always suggest eating where’s busy as food is less likely to have been sitting around. Sanitise your hands before eating and avoid ice in your drinks.

Solo Mexico City tips

The question on many would-be travellers’ lips is, ‘ Is Mexico City safe for solo female travellers ?’ Yes, I absolutely recommend Mexico City for solo female travel! It’s a fun, vibrant and cultural city. Like capitals often do, it feels different to the rest of the country, hence why I put together these Mexico City travel tips . Since many solo travellers to Mexico start their trip in the capital, it’s a great way to meet other people to potentially travel around with. Pick a good hostel, like Casa Pepe in the historic centre, to get your solo travels in Mexico off to a good start. Mexico City has great nightlife so it’s a fun place to be with a group.

Related read: How to spend 5 days in Mexico City

Best neighbourhoods for solo travel in Mexico City: Stay in Roma Norte or Condesa and wander the tree-lined walkways and pretty parks. The food in Condesa and Roma Norte is worth a trip alone! Another safe and tourist-friendly neighbourhood is Coyoacan in the south of the city, known for its pretty cobbled streets and famous ex-resident, Frida Kahlo. If you have the budget, Polanco is a swanky area of Mexico City with some cool galleries and museums.

Getting around Mexico City: During the daytime, you can get around using the Metro (underground) and the Metro bus (overground) for just 5 pesos a journey. You just need to buy and top up a Metro card in any station. To travel around within neighbourhoods, use EcoBici for bicycle hire with generous discounts for weekly or longer passes. Download the app, scan a bike and jump on! At night, use Uber to get around safely.

Confidence tips for traveling to Mexico City alone as a woman

If you’re nervous, stick to areas like Roma, Condesa, Centro and Coyoacan to start with. Avoid Doctors and Tepito completely. Wear a handy bum bag with secure zip in busy areas like Centro and keep a close eye on your belongings in markets.

For an extra confidence boost to get you started, take tours with GetYourGuide or Viator .

Useful items for solo female travel in Mexico

• The latest copy of Lonely Planet Mexico / Cancun, Cozumel & the Yucatan
• A Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary
• A handy bum bag with secure zip
• Microfibre quick-drying towel
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent
• Travel luggage: Osprey Farpoint backpack ( men’s ) ( women’s )
• Solo photography pick: Manfrotto tripod and Joby Gorillapod
• A GoPro if you’re making videos – I use the HERO8 Black
• A power bank to keep your devices alive
• Sustainability: A stainless steel reusable water bottle with straw lid to reduce the use of plastic bottles
• Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water
• Metal straw kit with straw cleaner and cloth bag .

Best places in Mexico for solo female travel

The sheer volume of awesome destinations has to be my favourite thing about travelling in Mexico. As my friends in Mexico City and I always say, you could live in Mexico for years and not make it everywhere. My favourite places to travel alone in Mexico include:

Mexico City

As mentioned above, Mexico City is a good place for solo travel. An optimal amount of time to spend is 5 days in Mexico City . Things to do in Mexico City for solo travellers include exploring charming suburbs, hipster neighbourhoods, lively markets, historical buildings, art galleries, museums, nightlife, green spaces and world-class cuisine. Don’t miss Xochimilco , a neighbourhood known as the Venice of Mexico.

Read next: how to plan an epic solo trip to Mexico City

Puebla city

Just two hours drive from Mexico City is Puebla city. This small city is beyond charming and a great base for exploring Puebla state. My favourite thing about Puebla is definitely Calle de Dulces, in English – Sweet Street! You can browse the dulcerias (sweet shops) and buy delicious confectionaries for a few pesos. Puebla is a pretty city with open squares, an Artists Quarter and numerous crafts markets and museums. Don’t miss the nearby city of Cholula which is famous for its ancient pyramid.

Tepoztlán, Morelos

An hour’s drive (in good traffic) from Mexico City is this charming town in the state of Morelos. Due to its positive safety rating, it’s one of the best places in Mexico to travel alone. As well as some pretty street art, there’s loads of amazing food in Tepoztlán including pre-hispanic pink hibiscus and squash burgers in the main market. The town has historical significance as the renowned birthplace of Mexican god, Quetzalcoatl, and there’s an ancient pyramid with lofty panoramic views that you can hike through the woods to reach. Tepoztlán (not to be confused with Tepotzotlán) makes for a great weekend away or mini trip from Mexico City. The hostel scene isn’t amazing but EKKO Hostel does the job.

Taxco, Guerrero

Another of my favourite destinations near Mexico City is Taxco, a charming ex-silver mining city 2.5 hours from the capital. Although I visited with friends, I have no doubt it’s a lovely place to visit while travelling solo in Mexico so long as you enjoy your own company. There are plenty of affordable guesthouses and apartments but no backpacker hostels. Things to do in Taxco include shopping for silver, eating unique local cuisine and taking the cable car to Hotel Montetaxco (pictured).

Guadalajara, Jalisco

Guadalajara is the second-largest city in Mexico, four hours north of Mexico City. In many ways, it’s quite similar to the capital: there’s a busy historic city and some stylish, upmarket areas on the outskirts. You can take several day trips to Tequila, the town where the infamous spirit is produced, and Lake Chapala and Ajijic. You can spend around four days in Guadalajara experiencing the vibrant nightlife and excellent cuisine. I’d recommend staying in Hostal Hospedarte in Chapultepec which is a fun and modern neighbourhood.

San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

San Miguel is a charming, colourful city popular on the tourist trail. It’s a well-known American and Canadian retirement hub so it feels very Westernised and for that reason, isn’t my favourite destination in Mexico. However, it’s a pleasant place to spend a couple of days. You can browse craft markets, soak up views from the Mirador, eat chocolate-stuffed churros at  Chocolates y Churros San Agustín and take a half-day trip to the natural hot springs at La Gruta Spa .

Related read: San Miguel de Allende travel guide

Guanajuato city

Guanajuato is a safe and friendly place for solo female travel in Mexico. This small historical city in Central Mexico (the capital of Guanajuato state), not far from San Miguel de Allende, is built predominantly of rainbow-coloured houses set inside a sweeping valley. As well as fantastic local food and the quirky Mummy Museum , it’s a lovely place to soak up panoramic views and take solo travel photos from El Mirador viewpoint.

San Cristobal, Chiapas

A new destination I visited in 2023 was the beautiful city of San Cristobal. Although the surrounding state of Chiapas has some safety issues (which can be avoided when travelling to the other popular destination of Palenque), pretty San Cristobal is super safe for solo travellers in Mexico. Things to do in San Cristobal include wandering the central square, hiking up to either of the churches at opposite sides of the city both offering fantastic views, buying souvenirs at Mercado de Artesanias de Santo Domingo and visiting museums dedicated to Jade, Amber and Chocolate. Take day trips to Sumidero Canyon and autonomous villages, Chamula and Zinacantán, where prehispanic traditions and languages prevail. Posada del Abuelito is a great hostel with free breakfast and activities like movie nights and tamale-making classes.

Oaxaca 

After Mexico City, my favourite city in Mexico has to be Oaxaca. Due to its safety record and popularity with other travellers, it’s the perfect place for solo travel in Mexico. Oaxaca refers to both the state and its capital city. In this instance, I’m talking about the city which is famous for its culinary scene (don’t miss the mole or tlayudas!), mezcal distilleries and nearby Hierve el Agua , a petrified waterfall surrounded by forest and natural swimming holes.

Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca

Another destination in Oaxaca state for solo female travellers is Puerto Escondido. This coastal region has beautiful beaches and abundant nature experiences. Take excursions such as dolphin-spotting boat rides and wildlife cruises along Manialtepec Lagoon where you can witness the magical bioluminescence once the sun’s gone down. As a well-known backpacker destination, there are plenty of hostels in Puerto Escondido and rapidly developing tourist infrastructure due to the boom the town has experienced in recent years. In 2019 when I first visited, it was still a hidden gem and now not so much. The fish tacos and seafood tostadas in Puerto are next level! Beware if you take a day bus from Oaxaca City to Puerto, it takes a mountain pass which is one of the windiest roads I’ve ever experienced! Take sickness tablets or opt for an ADO bus along the new highway.

Other places on the Oaxaca coast 

Mazunte : I loved this chilled, hippie town with wonderful beaches and the chance to capture magical sunsets from Punta Cometa (accessed by a 20-minute hike) or the more boujee option of El Copal hotel and bar. If relaxing and visiting all the amazing cafes isn’t enough, take a wildlife boat trip or an eco-tour to Laguna Ventanilla.

Zipolite : visiting the country’s only legal nude beach is something to tick off your Mexico bucket list ! This chilled beach town with a lively LGBT scene is a unique destination just a 10-minute drive from Mazunte. 

Huatulco : this region boasts beaches, waterfalls, the inland coffee region of Pluma Hidalgo, and Parque Nacional Huatulco which is best explored by boat. There’s not a big backpacker scene but there’s one hostel, Azul y Blanco in La Cruceita (a 15 min walk from Santa Cruz Huatulco beach town) and plenty of tours and activities in Huatulco to potentially meet others. 

Note – the Oaxacan coast is notorious for big waves so there aren’t THAT many beaches where you can swim.

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

Another well-known beach town in Central Mexico is Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco state. Popular on the travel trail after visiting Guadalajara, it’s a great place to relax, party or splash some cash during a luxurious beach break. As well as beautiful beaches, the Old Town is easy to explore on foot and there’s fantastic local cuisine, dive opportunities and an LGBT+-friendly scene. PV is a popular American and Candian holiday hotpsot so prices are high; backpackers will prefer nearby Sayulita and San Pancho along the Nayarit Riveria (in Nayarit state rather than Jalisco) for boho, backpacker vibes and great surf.

Tulum, Quintana Roo

Although it’s one of Mexico’s most expensive and touristic areas, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Tulum like visiting beautiful beaches, crystal-clear cenotes, dive sites and archaeological ruins. This city on the Yucatan coast has become a hippie hub home to Instagram hotspots and matcha cafes. Since English is widely spoken and there’s well-developed tourist infrastructure, it’s an easy place for beginner solo female travel in Mexico.

Merida, Yucatan

The largest city on the Yucatan Peninsular is Merida , known for its colonial architecture and Mayan heritage. With its sunny squares and beautiful buildings, it’s a safe and friendly place in Mexico for solo travellers.

Foodies will enjoy the unique Yucatan cuisine like cochinita pibil, a slow-cooked pork dish marinated in banana leaves.

Another idyllic, traditional Mexican town not far away is Valladolid where I enjoyed spending a few days. Both destinations offer day excursions to cenotes, lesser-visited Mayan ruins like Uxmal and other nice towns like Izamal.

Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo

This picturesque island off the Yucatan Peninsula is a must-visit for solo female travellers in Mexico – and everyone else for that matter! On Isla Holbox , you can visit isolated beaches, swim with whale sharks, take island boat trips, see luminous plankton and even cycle around the whole island by bike. There’s a boho vibe with colourful street art and endless places to sip margaritas and eat seafood.

Mexico solo travel itinerary

It really depends on how much time you have but here are a couple of suggested 2 week Mexico solo travel itineraries: 2 weeks in Southern Mexico: Days 1-5: Mexico City Days 6-7: Puebla. Don’t miss Calle de Dulces ! Days 8-12: Oaxaca Days 12-14: Puerto Escondido. Finish with some beach chills! 2 weeks in Central Mexico: Days 1-5: Mexico City Days 6-7: San Miguel de Allende. Eat at San Augustin Chocolates & Churros ! Days 8-10: Guanajuato Days 11-14: Guadalajara 2 weeks in the Yucatan Day 1: Arrive in Cancun and head to Holbox Days 2-4: Holbox Days 5-6: Vallodolid Day 7: Chichén Itzá and Izamal Days 8-10: Merida Days 11-14: Bacalar. Note – my preference is avoiding very touristic places like Cancun and Tulum but that’s up to you.

What to budget for solo travel in Mexico

Mexico is great for affordability although it’s certainly increased in price in the last few years. But if you eat street food and stay in hostels, it’s manageable on a budget. However, if you stay in stylish areas of Mexico City like Roma or Condesa, or basically anywhere in Tulum or Cancun for that matter, it’s not that cheap at all.

Budget for accommodation: If you stay in hostels, you can spend $12-20 a night on accommodation. To stay in basic hostels or private rooms in shared Airbnbs, I would budget $15-30 per night instead. Private Airbnbs and rooms in nicer hotels usually start around $40 a night. Budget for food: If you love Mexican street food as much as me, you can spend your entire trip eating street food for $2 a meal. If you eat in modest local restaurants (as opposed to ones popular with foreigners), expect to spend 70-100 pesos per main dish. Keep an eye out for restaurants with comida corrida (‘food on the run’) meals which often include two courses and a drink for around 100 pesos ($5). If you consume world cuisine, brunch, cocktails and speciality coffees, well…. get ready to spend almost the same you would at home!

Budget for activities:  You can take very affordable tours in Mexico. Browse tours on GetYourGuide from $30 a day

Budget tips for solo travel in Mexico

Stay in Airbnbs or hostels with kitchens to save money or eat healthily. Rather than hiring a whole apartment, I often like to find rooms in local homes. You usually get to meet the locals this way, too! If you shop at local markets over supermarkets, you’ll find cheaper groceries. Pick up fresh tortillas and serve them with cooked veggies, meat, mole sauce or salsa… Whatever you have lying around!

Events in Mexico

If you can time your solo female travels in Mexico around these events, do! They’ll give you memories for life.

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead)

I thoroughly enjoyed the chance to experience Day of the Dead. This unique cultural holiday held from 31 October – 2 November sees Mexican families spend the night in graveyards and build altars in their homes to commemorate their deceased family members. Rather than being sad or morbid, it’s a lively cultural celebration showing respect to their ancestors. Taking a Day of the Dead tour with Coyote Aventuras in Oaxaca was a fun experience while solo travelling in Mexico. If you choose to celebrate Day of the Dead in Oaxaca , make sure to book accommodation a couple of months in advance because it’s so popular. Another iconic place to celebrate Dia de Muertos is Janitzio Island on Lake Pátzcuaro in Michoacan state.

Mexico City Alebrijes Parade

A few days before Day of the Dead in Mexico City, a parade of model alebrijes (fantasy animals rooted in Mexican folk art) make their way from the Zócalo to the Angel of Independence in Reforma where they remain for a few weeks. This colourful and lively celebration is worth timing your trip around.

How to meet people & make friends

• Stay in hostels – this is the numero uno option to meet other backpackers.
• Airbnb rooms in shared houses – whether these are other guests or the owners, this is a good way to meet other people getting to know the city (or better yet, those who already know it well).
• Food tours and walking tours – you can bet other people will be new to the area, too. If it’s a food tour, you can guarantee a shared interest!
• Join a foodie experience with EatWith – from market visits to supper clubs, these are usually led by friendly locals.
• Join expat groups on Facebook – if you’re staying somewhere more than a few days, tap into the expat community. Post and introduce yourself or see if any events are being held.
• Language exhange groups – use Facebook or Meetup to find these. As an extra bonus, you get to brush up on your Spanish.
• Dating apps – apps like Bumble have a BFF friend feature.
• Volunteer – use Workaway or Worldpackers to find opportunities By staying put longer, you’ll make deeper connections. If you want to sign up, I can offer you discount codes for both Workaway and Worldpackers.
• For more tips, use my guides to meeting people while travelling solo and meeting people in a new city (based on my experiences in Mexico City). If you decide to travel with people you meet, see my guide to picking an A* travel buddy .

Thanks for reading my solo travel Mexico guide!

Guides to solo female travel in Asia :

• Solo travel in Bali
• Vietnam solo travel guide
• What to know about solo Malaysia travel
• Thailand solo female travel guide
• How to stay safe as a solo traveller in India
• Solo female travel in Taiwan
• Korea solo travel

Guides to solo travel in Europe :

• Where to travel alone in Europe for women
• Solo female travel in Lisbon
• Solo travel in Portugal for women
• Complete guide to solo travel in Croatia
• Is Italy safe for solo female travellers?
• Is it safe to travel to Romania alone?
• Solo female travel in Albania

Guides to solo travel in the Americas:

• A solo female travellers guide to NY
• Solo travel in Guatemala
• Solo female travel in Belize
• Cuba solo travel guide

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VISITING MEXICO? These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – the quickest (and often cheapest) way to travel between Mexican cities is by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Getting around by bus (environmental option) – buses in Mexico are comfy with free snacks and an in-journey entertainment system. I use Busbud to find the best prices. To stay connected, download an e-SIM with Airalo and connect immediately. Browse their packages for Mexico . Driving in Mexico – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in Mexico (and all around the world) For hotels in Mexico, I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse Mexico tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I always check Viator too in case they have a better price. For Mexico food tours with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

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Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

10 thoughts on “ Solo Female Travel In Mexico (2024) – A Complete Guide ”

Oh Rose, you’ve totally helped me make up my mind! Thank you so Much!

Yay! So glad to hear that!

Thank you so much for the detailed information! Super duper helpful! Which year did you travel in Mexico solo? Love your blog.

Hi Xia! It was 2019-2020 and I will be back later this year!

Thank you! Me too. Planning to go to Tulum and Oaxaca Oct/Nov. Would be nice to follow on your adventures.

thank you so much, I’ve solo travelled in many parts of Asia and Europe but have been a little nervous about Mexico.

I spent four months in South America but with my ex.

This has been so helpful, in looking at Mexico City, Oaxaca , Merida and Tulum ( hopefully as a help exchange to relax a while )

I’ll start practicing Spanish now 🤗 gracias

Hi Ella thanks for reading and commenting. You will love Mexico. I also need to practise A LOT lol

Brilliant thank you! Now looking at your two week southern Mexico itinerary suggestion for our family holiday this year!! Questions- would it be good for teenage kids too? Is it best to hire a car or use buses to get between towns? Would you recommend booking all accommodation in advance or just winging it as we go? Finally, the weather in July – good or horrible?? Don’t mind some rain… Thank you!

Hey Sam! It’s easy to get buses around. I think you can wing it with accommodation! And I have no experience about travelling with teenagers – sorry! Have a fab trip

Thank you for this information! It’s definitely helpful for planning my upcoming trip!

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Home » North America » Mexico » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Mexico | Destinations & Tips for 2024

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Mexico | Destinations & Tips for 2024

The first time I went solo traveling in Mexico, my expectations were high. I’d heard about the exquisite nature, vibrant cities, friendly locals, and colorful culture, not to mention the incredible food scene, from just about everyone I knew who had visited before me. If it was at all possible, the country only exceeded my unrealistic expectations.

Many view the country exclusively as a resort destination, taking the odd day trip to a Mayan ruin or strolling through a local market. Beyond the classic stereotypes of mariachi bands and street tacos, Mexico is bursting at the seams with cultural vibrancy .

Little did I know: traveling through Mexico alone means building confidence, meeting amazing people, falling in love, and learning a LOT.

The country has been known to get a bad rep for its cartel activity and violence, which deters many solo travelers from exploring. However, Mexico has made its mark as a home for ex-pats and a destination for tourists looking to create lives and communities. Cities like Oaxaca and Mexico City deserve the same – if not more – attention than the idyllic beach towns.

Traveling alone is one of the best ways to get to know yourself by participating in the activities that most excite you. In this article, I will give you all the best advice and tips on traveling solo in Mexico , where to go, and how to stay as safe as possible. Let’s get into it!

7 Things to Do in Mexico When Travelling Solo

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Mexico is pretty much a paradise for beach lovers, culture fanatics, and foodies. If you’re looking for ways to spend your alone time, you could sip on a fresh coconut on the beach, explore unique markets, take yourself on a self-made food tour, or spend months exploring Mexico City’s museums.

From the Pacific coastline lined with world-class surfing waves to the calm waters of the Caribbean Gulf of Mexico to the rumbling volcanoes, each corner of the country boasts its own unique ecosystem, culture, and history. With a natural landscape so diverse, it’s not hard to believe that Mexico is bursting at the seams with different activities and things to do as a solo traveller. 

If you’d prefer to join others on a fun activity, check out local tour groups or travel groups and join a trek or hike through nature, take a group surfing lesson or cooking lesson, explore ancient ruins in an organized tour, or simply enjoy the social atmosphere at a local bar or nightclub. 

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1. Get to Know Mexico’s Surf Scene

If you’re travelling solo in Mexico and like to stay active while catching some sunshine, Mexicos Pacific Coastline is packed with incredible surfing conditions and waves for all levels. Surfers offer a very child-out outlook on life and are usually friendly and welcoming even if you aren’t a surfer yourself. 

The surfing scene is well worth checking out, and Puerto Escondido is particularly well-known among the world’s best surfers, while places like Sayulita and San Pancho are more suited for beginner and intermediate surfers. 

By spending time out in the water, you’ll be getting your daily dose of vitamin D in, exercising your body, and will get a chance to see the country from a different point of view. Whether you want to try your hand at the sport or not, you will no doubt leave with a few cool new friends.

2. Support a Small Business and Take a Local Cooking Class

The cuisine is one of Mexico’s most valued ‘exports.’ With tacos and burritos available across the four corners of the world today, Mexico truly does offer something special when it comes to food. 

That said, the food you’ll taste within the country is a unique experience from what you might have tried abroad, and the way it is prepared locally is an art compared with how you might throw your breakfast burrito together in the morning. 

One of the top Mexican solo travel tips, joining a cooking class is a great way to learn about the local culture of your region, while meeting other travellers and supporting a local business. Typically hosted by a homely chef (the matron of a home), you’ll learn the ins and outs of authentic Mexican cooking as it is passed down from generation to generation.

3. Volunteer

Volunteering abroad is one of those activities that is just good for you in every sense. It doesn’t matter if you choose to volunteer with a local animal shelter or cook for hungry children, the selfless act makes you feel helpful, all while helping you gain experience, promoting your own self-esteem and personal growth, and strengthening your ties with the local community. 

There are all sorts of ways to help out in Mexico, offering you a chance to ‘give back’ while meeting other volunteers, and locals, and learning about Mexican culture.

4. Join a Group of Strangers on a Tour of Ancient Mayan Ruins

Mexico’s history and unique heritage are not to be missed. Known for their incredible stone pyramids and intricate cities, the Mayans were an advanced ancient civilization known for their incredible understanding of agriculture, pottery, and maths. 

Still standing tall today, visiting these incredible ancient pyramids offers a glimpse into the past of Mesoamerica. If you’re travelling solo in Mexico, take a day trip from Mexico City to Teotihuacan and the Tlatelolco ruins of the Sun and the Moon.

5. Play Chess with the Locals

Even though you might not be able to communicate using Spanish, chess is a world-famous game that is understood by just about every nationality. You’ll find locals enjoying a game of chess in hostels, parks, on sidewalks, and in busy marketplaces, who will welcome you to compete with them in a friendly battle.

6. Adventure Across the Beautiful Mexican Landscape

If you enjoy spending time outdoors and in nature, you’ll want to seek out the best hikes and treks through Mexico’s best national parks. From one point of the country to the other, you could explore the dense tropical Lacandon Jungle and venture through the cacti-studded Sonoran Desert.

Perfect for Mexico solo travel, a hiking tour from Mexico City ventures into the peaks of the Iztaccihuatl Volcano with a trained alpinist.

7. Join a Spanish Class

Spanish is one of the core components of Latin heritage, and understanding a basic level of the language will not only be an added skill set for yourself but will earn you more respect from locals when exploring Mexico. Plenty of language courses are offered throughout the country, offering essential to advanced level courses. Of course, joining any class like this will leave you with a well-rounded group of new friends.

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Mexico is bursting with activity and colour, with a surprise in every direction you turn your head. That said, like any country, there are certain regions that are better suited for solo travellers than others, and some that I would recommend you outright avoid.

Mexico has a bad reputation for safety related to crime and gang violence and it’s not really fair. It’s always a good idea to do personal research about neighbourhoods inside major cities since there are always places you would rather not find yourself passing through (especially alone). However, these really aren’t places of interest.

Enough about that; here are five places that are incredibly welcoming for solo female travellers in Mexico:

Mexico City (CDMX)

Founded in 1325, Mexico City is the oldest continually inhabited city on the American continent and one of the most populous in the world. The city is home to an incredibly vast population with something to offer every type of traveller, including more museums than any other city in the world.

Visiting Mexico City needs to involve the cultural scene. It’s bursting at the seams with incredible restaurants and unique cuisine, gorgeous parks, and incredible options for accommodation. 

Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel is a beautifully designed property in a safe historic neighborhood. Surrounded by Mexican culture and history, the hostel is packed with local art and craft showcasing the unique artisanal creatives of the area. Choose from a private room (with breakfast included), a single private ensuite, or a range of dorms from six to twelve beds. Female dorms are available for solo female travellers.

So, is it a safe city for solo female travel in Mexico City ? The short answer is yes, but the long answer is that this comes with a few apparent appendixes.

Common sense and intuition are always important, but so are avoiding specific neighbourhoods. The atmosphere can change quickly from neighbourhood to neighbourhood. Generally safe to explore as a solo female, Roma Norte/Sur, Condesa, Centro Historico, and Zona Rosa are good areas to find accommodation in CDMX.

San Miguel de Allende

If you’re wondering what it takes to be a good city for solo travellers, staying in San Miguel de Allende is the answer. It has a moderate year-round climate, gorgeous architecture and mountain views, and an abundance of World Heritage Sites nearby.

It’s also considered relatively safe, small enough to explore by foot (the centre, at least), and known for its incredible art, culture, and architecture. It is popular with solo travellers and digital nomads, long-term ex-pats, and artist communities. With tons of festivals held in the town, it’s gaining traction with younger travellers. 

El Jardin, the central town square, is where you’ll find the highest concentration of restaurants, shops, and other inspired travellers. It’s also just a short drive from the surrounding vineyards of Mexico’s wine and cheese route.

This amazing city has places to stay for all budgets, ranging from impressive hotels and boutique bed and breakfasts to affordable hostels suitable for sociable solo travellers.

Located in central city, Meson Amelia is one of the best Mexican solo travel hostels, built on the foundations of a 30-year-old mansion. It offers a more intimate vibe than other hostels, with small four-person dorms and female-only rooms, a central courtyard space, and an on-site restaurant.

Sayulita and San Pancho

Just an hour’s drive from Puerta Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coastline, Nayarit, Sayulita, and San Pancho are some of the best beach towns in Mexico with much to offer.

The small beach towns are known for their intimate town centres, incredible nightlife (Sayulita especially), and excellent surfing conditions for beginners. 

Sayulita is the busier town of the two, offering a small yet significant centre with many shops, restaurants, bars, cool ass hostels , and nightclubs. While certainly more of a tourist destination, the town still hones into the local feeling of small-town Mexico, with no chain stores or Western restaurant brands to be seen. 

From ol’ style hostels to fancy seaside retreats, you’ll find sick places to stay in Sayulita that’ll make your journey unforgettable.

San Pancho is a lot smaller yet less touristy than Sayulita. Visitors flock to the exquisite beach to watch the sunset, surf, and enjoy ball games on the sand. Both towns are relatively affordable, although priced slightly for tourist markets.

Known for its properties worldwide, Selina Sayulita is one of the beach town’s most popular hostels. Set right in the heart of the town; it’s just a few meters from the beach and all major restaurants and nightlife. Of course, the hostel hosts daily events and activities, which offers an easy way to meet friends while travelling solo.

Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City is known as one of the best destinations in Mexico for female solo travellers in Mexico. The city is smaller than one might expect and is also the cultural capital of its state.

The central town square, called the Centro Historico, is a World Heritage Site. Since the city is one of the food capitals of Mexico, joining a food tour is one of the best ways to experience the city’s charm.

You’ll feel safe walking around the city alone during the day, even as a female solo traveller. However, I always advise walking with a group or using taxis at night as a precaution. The city has boomed as a tourist destination, which means it’s easy to meet other travellers, but prices can also be higher than local towns. Regardless, accommodation and food are affordable, and staying in a hostel or boutique hotel is a great way to meet others.

One of the most exciting hostels in Oaxaca is Casa Angel Hostel . This award-winning hostel is one of the best places for solo travellers in Mexico to mingle and let loose. They have a perfect, city centre location in the historic area of Oaxaca and offer endless activities for backpackers to get stuck into. 

Guadalajara

One of the best destinations for solo female travel in Mexico , Guadalajara is a colourful, vibrant, yet equally relaxed city just a six-hour drive from Mexico City. This modern, global city offers a diverse range of hostels , giving comfortable accommodation to travelers on even the smallest budgets.

There are also plenty of safe neighbourhoods here, including Chapultepec and Colonia Americana. both of which boast a number of boutique accommodations and affordable hostels. 

As the second largest metropolitan centre behind CDMX, this city has a lot to do and see. The Centro Historico and Zocalo neighbourhoods are an excellent place to start exploring, home to a range of historic buildings and exciting markets. 

One of the best things to do while in Guadalajara is take a day trip to Tequila. Unsurprisingly, this is the small town where the famous Mexican liquor is produced. There is even a Tequila Train that offers a full-day tour through the town. Another incredible place for a day trip is Tlaquepaque, a magical town known for its artisanal pottery production.

With a lush rooftop garden terrace and sunset views, Hostal Bohostel Chapultepec is one of Guadalajara’s most authentically attractive properties. It’s just a block away from the city’s trendiest avenues offering private and shared rooms with cozy common areas. The hostel also offers a range of activities like yoga and cooking classes.

Having the right apps for travel makes your life a whole lot easier.

• Hostelworld – The best way to search and book affordable dorms or private rooms
• Couchsurfing – Ideal for budget travellers but not advised for solo female travellers
• Tinder – Suitable for meeting friends in foreign places
• Hinge – Designed for dating and meeting likeminded travellers
• Bumble – Ideal for making new friends
• Backpackr – A social app for travellers to find nearby travellers
• Holafly  – An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card

If meeting like-minded travellers is your goal, check out the current popular Facebook groups for travellers in Mexico.

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Like any destination, there are certain areas you should stay clear of and things you should avoid doing in Mexico. One of the leading Mexico solo travel tips for staying safe is to avoid unnecessary attention. Don’t wear flashy jewellery or wear unnecessarily revealing clothing, as this will only attract predators.

Listen to your gut and trust your sixth sense – we have it for a reason. Share your plans with those you trust, but avoid oversharing information with those you don’t know. Partying is fun, but don’t get blackout drunk when out alone at night. 

In the same vein, don’t leave drinks unattended; no matter how good that margarita looks, never accept a drink from a stranger. I don’t think I have to explain this one.

Although optional, learning basic Spanish is a great way to understand your surroundings. Locals advise tourists to avoid calling the police. Bribery is rife, and the police force won’t necessarily be on your side. 

Always carry cash with you; there will no doubt be a scenario when you want to buy something or get home, your Uber app doesn’t open, your phone dies, or your card doesn’t w

• Spend time of your trip in Mexico in hostels . This is the easiest way to make friends. Viajero Sayulita Hostel in Sayulita and Hostal Cuija Coyoacan in Mexico City are two of my favorites.
• Plan pre-booked and organized adventures. When you first arrive in a town or city, sightseeing or group walking tours are a great way to get your bearings and see the city through a different lens.
• Keep your plans and itinerary flexible. Undoubtedly, you will meet people who guide you toward different destinations and activities you may not have initially planned for. After I fell in love, I moved out my entire itinerary…
• Plan your own trip with what you most enjoy . Template itineraries and advice from friends is helpful, but it’s always best to research and make time for the activities you most want to do and places you most want to visit. Define your budget and timeline, and research those places.
• Know a basic level of Spanish – vital in more remote regions. However, Spanish fluency isn’t essential to travel to Mexico, and you can get by knowing minimal Spanish.
• Be aware of your surroundings and belongings. Always keep an eye on your possessions on beaches, when travelling on public transport, and in public spaces when travelling solo in Mexico, where petty crime and pickpocketing is expected.
• Always share your travel plans with someone you trust back home, and once you make new friends in Mexico, it’s a good idea to tell them your vague plans too. This way, if something goes wrong, your family and friends should be able to contact you.
• Download an air SIM using a company like Airalo when you arrive. There will be times when you will want your phone to organize reservations, order Uber, or check the exchange rate. 
• Prepurchase a solid insurance plan that covers both health and emergency repatriation and travel insurance in case you run into any issues with lost luggage or misplaced items. 

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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• Stay in a hostel : One of the best ways to meet people when traveling solo in Mexico is by staying in a hostel. Whether you stay in a private room or a dorm room, typical hostels have a variety of shared spaces where guests can socialize. Many hostels even have on-site bars to let loose. 
• Attend events: If you are staying at a hostel, find a property that organizes regular gatherings or tours. Many hostels (especially in major backpacker destinations) host social evenings like pub crawls, tours, and group activities. Joining a few organized activities is a sure way to interact and make new friends. 
• Download dating/friend-finding apps: Did you know that most dating apps offer services that allow you to meet and make new friends? Ideal for solo female travel in Mexico, Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge can all be switched from ‘dating’ to a ‘friendship’ profile, where you can scroll through and chat with people within your vicinity who may have similar interests or travel plans. 
• Short-term memberships: If you plan to spend an extended period of time in one particular area, purchasing a gym membership or joining a coworking space is another excellent way to meet people. 
• Join group tours: Whether you join a tour hosted by a hostel or an independent tour, joining a group tour or activity is one of the best ways to make friends while travelling . Chances are those joining the same tour as you will have similar interests, at least in the tour or type of trip you join together.
• Join Facebook groups: They offer a similar way to meet friends as an online app, just within a different format. Groups like Mexico Travel Community, Travel Buddies on the Road in Mexico , and Mexico Travel Recommendations all host a vast community of tourists and ex-pats, many of whom are also looking for social connections while abroad.
• Join cultural activities: Besides tours, joining other cultural activities like language classes or cooking courses is a great way to meet others with similar interests.
• Be approachable: Make sure you keep an open mind about meeting others while in Mexico. Be available when others ask for advice or directions or to take photos of them. Being open and available makes you seem more approachable and makes it easier to strike up a conversation with a stranger in arbitrary scenarios.

All in all, there is little negative to be said about travelling to Mexico solo. Since the country is so large, it can be daunting to decide which places to visit, where to stay, and what to do in Mexico at the best of times. The best thing about travelling solo? You can make all the calls for yourself and spend your time exactly how you want to.

If you possess a good level of worldliness and common sense (which is necessary for any solo adventurer), you’ll find Mexico is not at all intimidating or scary and instead is home to some of the friendliest locals, the most exquisite landscapes, and exciting cities. 

From the laid-back vibe of Baja California and the Pacific coastline to the dynamic beach scene of the Caribbean side, Mexico has something to offer every traveller.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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How to Stay Safe in Mexico as a Solo Female Traveler

Mexico is an amazing country to visit…but it has something of a bad reputation. Is it actually safe to visit? What if you’re a solo female traveler? In this guest post, Kristin Addis from Be My Travel Muse shares her safety tips and advice to help you navigate Mexico with confidence as a solo female traveler.

The tastes, smells, sights, and sounds of Mexico are irresistible. It’s the first place I traveled internationally, and whenever I want a warm, welcoming adventure that’s easy and accessible, I think of Mexico.

But sometimes people with little to no Mexico travel experience will try to talk you out of traveling there solo. They’ve seen nothing but negativity on the news, and so that’s their impression of the entire country. After all, Mexico has an international reputation for having high crime. So yes, this is something you have to be aware of when traveling there, especially by yourself.

But let’s be real: lots of fantastic destinations — including many in the US — have a similar reputation. It doesn’t mean the entire country is “bad” or that you can’t have a great, safe time there. You just need to take certain precautions, just like you would in much of the world. That starts with being well informed.

To help you stay safe, here are my top tips for traveling safely in Mexico as a solo female traveler:  

1. Choose your destination wisely

But lately, crime has increased in parts of the Riviera Maya ( largely fueled by tourists’ desire for drugs ), and tourist cities that used to be popular destinations, like Acapulco, have since become more synonymous with cartels. Just because something was popular ten years ago doesn’t mean it is a good place to visit now.

How do you know? If you’ve got someplace in mind, do a quick Google search for the town along with “crime” or “tourist crime.” Keep in mind: the media can really overplay things. I like to look at as many specific statistics as I can, when available.

I also like posting on message boards ( like TripAdvisor’s ) when planning trips to get the most current information. Local expat Facebook groups can also be helpful. Here’s one specifically for Tulum, for example. You’ll be able to ask people who are living or on the ground there what their experience is. This works for almost any major area of Mexico (and the world).  

2. Choose centrally located accommodations

Especially if it will be your first time visiting Mexico or a certain city or town, choose a place close to the zócalo, or main square. These areas are always well lit, and there are usually plenty of police officers around, making it less attractive for criminals. (One exception to this is Mexico City , as there are so many neighborhoods to choose from besides the zócalo downtown. )

Although I haven’t made this mistake in Mexico, from time to time I have gotten this wrong when in other countries. I remember a situation in the Philippines where I was so far away from all of the things to do and other tourists that I spent a very lonely few days on the tip of an island, cut off from everyone and everything.

Coincidentally, that’s exactly when someone tried to break into my bungalow at night. I learned my lesson the hard way on that one: always read the reviews completely and have a good understanding of what is near your accommodation.  

3. Learn some basic Spanish

What if you don’t know much? Well, my Spanish isn’t great. I thought it would be cool to take French in high school, even having grown up in Southern California, where Spanish would have been very helpful! So everything I know it’s just what I have picked up since then.

That said, the basics are often enough, and Mexico is a great place to learn more. Mexicans are generally very kind and forgiving toward those who try to speak their language.

Even if you just learn basic greetings and key phrases, you’re off to a great start. Duolingo is helpful with that, and you can also download Google Translate for offline use.

Speaking the language (even poorly) is a sign of respect and can help break the ice with locals, so why not give it a try?  

4. Find travel friends to feel less alone

Sometimes signing up for a retreat is also a good way to go. I usually find these through influencers I follow. I did this toward the end of my trip in Sayulita a few years ago, which gave me a good balance of time with people and also solitude before and after.

As a solo female traveler, this is my absolute favorite way to make sure that I meet other people. Do you love food? Sign up for a cooking class or even a food tour with great ratings on Google or TripAdvisor.  

5. Opt for rideshare apps when you can

Sometimes taxis can be sketchy depending on where you’re traveling to in Mexico. In Mexico City and Playa del Carmen, for example, riders have even been kidnapped and extorted. In other cities, however, taxis are totally safe. Mérida, Cancún , San Cristóbal de las Casas and San Miguel de Allende are all fine places to take taxis in.

Rideshare apps are generally a safer option, especially at night. These apps make it possible to hold drivers accountable for any misdeeds, making it far less likely that they would commit any crimes. Plus, no actual money is exchanged, and they’re less likely to add extra mileage to make the bill higher since you can see right on the app what the suggested route is.

Uber is available in some cities in Mexico, but not all. There is almost always some kind of taxi app (like DiDi, for example) or WhatsApp taxi service available in any significant city, but if you’re visiting a small town or village, these options likely won’t be available.  

6. Avoid being flashy

Wearing flashy jewelry and designer clothes will draw attention to you, almost anywhere you go in Mexico. One exception is Mexico City, where people generally dress up more in specific neighborhoods. Almost anywhere else, wearing extravagant clothing could make you a potential target for theft.

Although I own them, you won’t catch me with designer purses abroad, because I just don’t want to make myself the most attractive target.

The same goes for having your nice smartphone in hand on the street. There are two reasons for this: one, it can be a big distraction for you, and two, it’s something very easy to quickly steal out of your hand.  

7. Vet tour companies beforehand

There are hundreds of tour companies in Mexico, and not all of them are reputable or safe. I almost never book a tour directly from a seller or right off the street. I always want to look at reviews first.

If you want to go on a day trip with a particular tour company, see if you can look it up online and read actual reviews before you hand over your money. Next, I check if they have websites and social media, such as a Facebook page.

If you don’t have a specific company in mind, Google the activity you’re interested in and see which companies offer it and follow the same advice. Chances are there will be some Google reviews, and if someone has had a bad experience, they’ll probably leave one to warn other travelers. You can also check TripAdvisor.

Another great way to make sure a tour is legit before you book is to go through a third-party site, like GetYourGuide . On those platforms, you can see reviews from other customers and make a more informed decision on which tour is safest and worth your time and money.

Additionally, beware of a common scam in which sketchy tour companies rent equipment to customers and then blame them for extensive damages. This is most common with scooter rentals, segway tours, and even snorkeling equipment rentals. To avoid this, make sure to ask what the policy is for any damage to equipment to make sure you won’t be held liable. You should also take photos of anything you rent before using it. That way you can prove that you haven’t made any damages.  

8. Tell a friend where you are

Personally, checking in with someone every day or sharing my location with them would drive me absolutely bonkers, but so many solo female travelers have recommended this in comments on posts I’ve written over the years that I know that, for some people, the peace of mind is worth it.  

9. Get a Mexican SIM card

If you’re from the US, you may have cell phone service while in Mexico at no additional cost. If not, consider picking up a Mexican SIM card when you arrive. A Telcel card only costs 150 pesos ($7.50 USD) and you can easily load data onto it online or at any OXXO (24-hour convenience store).

I pretty much always get local SIM cards because they work better and are so much cheaper that using your regular SIM. I just ask a friend or person I meet at a hostel who is bilingual to help me get mine in Mexico, as my Spanish is not good enough to get the job done.

But after that, I’m set in terms of navigation, making local calls when needed, and always being connected.  

10. Don’t indulge cat-callers

In typical machismo fashion, a man who will cat-call you on the street could become aggressive or even violent if shown any kind of resistance. It’s a sad truth and one that pains me to say. But letting a disrespectful person know they’ve crossed a line does not always have the desired effect of making them stop what they’re doing.  

11. Be careful on dating apps

A lot of travelers use dating apps like Tinder and Bumble to meet people (even just as friends) while on the move. I’ve had friends rave about it in Europe and have run into people on the road who tell me that’s how they met. This could potentially be a cool way to see Mexico from a local’s perspective, but it also makes me nervous. What if they have expectations? What if you’re not on the same page?

There are a few ways you can vet someone before deciding to meet up. First, look at their social media for any red flags. Next, make your intentions clear from the get-go. If you just want to make a new friend and see the city, let them know. Then, agree to meet up in a public. You can also have a friend on standby to check in with you mid-date to make sure you’re alright.

There are also Facebook groups that you can use to meet up with others. I run one specifically for solo female travelers called BMTM Solo Female Traveler Connect . There’s also Meetup.com and Bumble Friend, which is specifically set up for platonic situations.  

12. Trust your gut when it comes to food

I’m not suggesting that you avoid street food and stick to only restaurants. The worst food poisoning I’ve ever had was from a fancy restaurant in Mexico! Plus, I absolutely love street tacos there, and I’m always on the lookout for them. But I have some rules.

First of all, trust your instincts with street food. If a stall looks unsanitary, it probably is. On the other hand, If you’re unsure of where to eat, pick the taco stand with the longest queue. If there’s a huge line for a particular place, it’s probably because the food is great. Locals really know best on this one.  

13. Buy travel insurance

I never travel without insurance. You shouldn’t either. Not only can it save you a fortune, but it also provides peace of mind, which is worth every penny (especially if you have concerned friends or family).

If you’re on a budget, use SafetyWing . It’s super affordable. Insure My Trip is the best choice for travelers over 70.

You can use this widget to get a quote for SafetyWing:

For more information on travel insurance, check out these posts:

• What Does Travel Insurance ACTUALLY Cover?
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies
• How to Buy the Best Travel Insurance

There’s a reason why you’ll find so many women traveling through Mexico on their own. It’s a beautiful and culturally rich country that is full of surprises, making it perfect for the adventurous heart. I’ve met amazing people in Mexico, many of whom have become friends far beyond the time I spent in the country.

Each time I go back to discover a new area, I’m reminded of just how wrong the media has it when portraying Mexico. Just like any other country, it has its fair share of safety concerns, but by being prepared and following some simple guidelines like the ones above, I’ve had beautiful experiences swimming with sharks, dunking in crystal-clear cenotes, eating amazing food, and making connections that I would have missed out on had I listened solely to all the bad news.

Kristin Addis is a solo female travel expert who inspires women to travel the world in an authentic and adventurous way. A former investment banker who sold all of her belongings and left California in 2012, Kristin has solo traveled the world ever since. There’s almost nothing she won’t try and almost nowhere she won’t explore. You can find more of her musings at Be My Travel Muse or on Instagram and Facebook .

Book Your Trip to Mexico: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the largest inventory. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think will help you too!

Want More Information on Mexico? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Mexico for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Solo trip to Mexico: a complete guide for safety and fun

In this article I'll share my recommendations to have a fun but safe solo trip to Mexico as a female backpacker.

Christelle ambr

Aug 15, 2023

Truth be told, I had only set out to trace to Mexico because my goal was South America. My initial plan was to land in Mexico, stay there for a couple of months, go through all of Central America and travel all of South America .

If you’re a backpacker like me.. you’ll know that was is often initially planned rarely turns out the way it was supposed to be.

I ended up staying 7 months in Mexico in total, did do most of Central America except Panama, and didn’t make it to South America (yet). I had no idea how amazing Mexico would be, and that I would fall in love with traveling there as a solo female backpacker .

Sure, Mexico has a certain reputation , but let me first start by saying one thing: Stop believing everything you read on the internet and listening to what people say (especially those that haven’t been to the said location).

That being said, do take this article however you want to, but at the end of the day, only you can make your own judgment and opinions on a place, if and when you go.

Solo trip to Mexico: your complete guide

When people think of Mexico they often associate the country with tequila, cartels, tacos, and men with moustaches, wearing sombreros and playing the guitar… I won’t judge you if you thought all of that when you first read Mexico, because that’s what I used to think too! Until I actually went there.

In this article, I’ll take you through traveling to Mexico as a solo female, how to plan a solo trip to Mexico (it’s really not that hard) and, what I believe are the best places to travel alone in Mexico (the safest regions).

Planning a trip to Mexico? Check out this list of the best places to visit in Mexico .

Traveling to Mexico as a solo female

Traveling as a solo female obviously differs a little from traveling with friends, a partner, a group, with parents, or (let’s state the downright obvious) as a solo male.

 Why? Because (unfortunately) we can be more “ at risk ” for dangerous situations and the chances of being raped are higher than if you’re a solo male. Let’s be real.

I believe that there are some basic-sense tips and knowledge that all solo females should know (in which ever part of the world you’re traveling) and then some more specific ones tailored to different countries and regions of the world.

Why? Because cultural norms can be very different, mentalities and perspectives change drastically from one culture to another, and YOU - as a solo female traveler - need to adapt to your environment ... not the other way around. When you’re in a foreign country, you are the tourist, so you must adapt accordingly.

Here are some tips/insights on traveling alone as a woman (anywhere in the world, but you’ll see it’s basically applicable to any solo traveler, regardless of gender):

• Avoid unecessary attention (unless you want it) this can be, but not limited to: 1) Wearing revealing items of clothing: and I’m not saying don’t wear shorts, or what you want, but just think of how much skin you’re comfortable showing - this will differ from woman to woman... for me, my usual travel outfit is a loose/baggy t-shirt, black shorts or leggings, and boots. 2) Wearing make up:  I mean… I don’t know many who even wear any whilst hitchhiking and backpacking, but to go out at night, sure, why not. 3) Wearing jewellery:  and once again i’m not saying don’t wear bracelets or stud earrings if you want to, but you really don’t need the big hoop earrings, choker, and rings. 4) This might be pushing it, but little details such as nail polish, fake eyelashes, extensions etc, sort of show that you’re not from around there and that you have the money to afford those things (and to thieves/people with bad intentions, you become the perfect victim).
• Always keep your belongings with you - not keep an eye on them, keep them with you so no one can snatch it from you
• Travel as light as possible , take only what you need which does not include your hairdryer or straighteners :)
• Follow your gut : cliché but if you don’t feel comfortable doing something, going down a certain road, sitting next to someone.. just don’t do it. It’s sometimes just not worth the risk, and trust me on this - I have stories.
• Avoid saying too much about yourself and your plans : don’t forget that you never know who you might be talking to... yes, even if it’s the most gorgeous Argentinian guy you’ve ever seen, keep some things private, especially your plans and where your staying (at first).
• Avoid getting drunk or taking substances with people you don’t know/trust : As a solo female traveler, you’ll probably be asked out quite a bit, and depending on your personality, can end up in some really interesting situations. But simple rule: less risk, less chances of something happening. If you end up in a jungle rave an hour away from Tulum, completely wasted with no signal or money, there’s only one person you can blame if anything happens, and that’s yourself for putting yourself in that situation in the first place - tough love hun, but the backpacker life is not always all fun and games.
• Ignore catcalling:  they’re only asking for attention and by you reacting in any way shape or form (even eye rolling) is a reaction. Just ignore, pretend you never heard it, and continue your way. Now as to traveling solo in Mexico, no one can deny that this country does have a certain level of “machismo” (strong or aggressive masculine pride), as in, certain men think very old school and think they have all rights with women, or that women are meant to be at their service. So in addition of all of the aforementioned, I’d really recommend:
• Being as covered up as possible when traveling solo (once you’re in a hostel or a group of people, you do you).
• Learn some Mexican Spanish - and I say Mexican Spanish because some words and expressions greatly differ from Spanish Spanish. I’m not asking you to take a course, but at least learn some basic words so you don’t come across as the completely brainless tourist (first lesson: "coger" in Spain means “to take” but in Mexico it means to fornicate…).
• Avoid taking public transportation if you don’t see any other women : for example, in Mexico City, they have specific wagons only for women in the metro, and when a man enters, he gets kicked out by metro security. The local buses/colectivos, are often run by men and if you don’t see any women inside, just wait for the next one. Better safe than sorry.
• AVOID THE POLICE : by all means, just don’t put yourself in any unnecessary risk and this goes from drinking in public in CDMX (you will get caught and bribed) to even just making eye contact with them. I have horror stories about Mexican cop and once again, not all of them are corrupt, but it’s just not worth the risk in case you fall on malevolent ones.
• Always use protection : yes, this is basic basic knowledge, but in some countries there isn’t much sexual education, especially in Mexico. Women get pregnant at a very young age and men don’t have that automatic reflex of being safe - it’s not a question of preference but they just didn’t grow up with that education (once again, not every single man, but this also depends on which regions you go to and if you end up in local villages or bigger cities).
•  Always have some cash on you (Mexican pesos): this isn’t just for female travellers but just a general rule of thumb. Certain ATMs take more commissions than others so just be aware of that before you withdraw, and when you do, make sure you take “a lot” in one go so you “save” on those fees (I also switched to Revolut online banking to save on fees).
• Tampons:  If you use them, bring some with you, cause they’re not that easy to find and when you do, they can be quite expensive. I switched to the cup a few years ago and that has been handy especially budget wise during my travels (sorry to the guys reading, but this is a real budget).

Depending on your personality, you can have the absolutely best time of your life, or not enjoy it at all.

I think you need a certain set of skills/traits to travel as a solo backpacker , which are but not limited to: adaptability, a sense of curiosity, spontaneity, ability to say “no”, independence, courage, thirst for adventure, not afraid to get dirty (not the princess type) and hey, there are so many different types of travel.

I come from the backpacker/roots/minimalist traveler but you can very well be a solo female traveler that stays in 5 star hotels and flies around in a private jet. Every person has their own style.

How do I plan a solo trip to Mexico? Tips and common knowledge

The first thing that always comes to mind when someone asks me how to plan a solo trip to Mexico is… don’t. Just don’t make plans . I was the type to be super organised and have a schedule with dates of my travels and after the first few months, I quickly understood that: 1) It takes away some of the joys of backpacking and 2) This is Mexico, things never go to plan.

What I can advise though is to first of all, check regions that you really want to visit and things that you really want to do/see.

As you go along your travels, you will come across people that will advise you to go here or there, and you’ll also probably start traveling with people and all of your initial plans will get shifted - but that’s the fun part.

Have a brief idea of where you want to go and how much time you want to spend in each place, and then go with the flow.

I usually plan my trips around my Worldpackers volunteering . For instance: I had 2 weeks of volunteering in a hostel in CDMX , a few days of buffer time to then get from CDMX to Veracruz, and then fixed dates for the next volunteering in Veracruz (photo below). I’d usually make my way to my next destination over the course of a few days (just to see more things) and also Couchsurf to not spend much and meet locals.

Depending on the opportunities and their locations, sometimes I also had a few weeks in between and that’s when things can get real fun, but make sure you always stick to a goal and turn up if you commit to something.

If you’re spontaneous like me, you’ll also sometimes let destiny take the lead. There were times where I literally flipped a coin to see which city I’d go to next, or just take a map, close my eyes, and randomly land my finger on a place and, well, just go! Why? Why not?!

As a general rule or guide, I would follow these next steps to plan a solo trip to Mexico:

• Define your budget (giving yourself an extra emergency envelope).
• Define a brief timeline for your trip.
• Research places you absolutely want to go and visit, and how to get there.
• Research documents you need (like covid passes, visas).
• Apply to Worldpackers experiences in the location, at least 1 month before (this will also give you some structure to your trip and trust me, it's important to not lose yourself too much whilst in the backpacking lifestyle).
• Research what you need to bring with you (especially travel adapters or medication).
• Try to speak to some locals or people who have traveled to where you want to go (either through Worldpackers, Couchsurfing or Facebook travel groups).
• Keep an open mind and be prepared to be adaptable.
• Stay positive and enjoy every single second of your trip!

Best places in Mexico to travel alone (Safest regions of Mexico)

Before I list out the safest regions in Mexico and give you my take on things, I’d like to tell you my itinerary and how things happened.

I set out to Ciudad de México , spent 2 weeks there volunteering with Worldpackers (there are 20 opportunities), took road trips and weekends to neighbouring areas, then did 2 weeks in Las Casitas ( Veracruz ) volunteering again, before heading to Cholula,  Puebla for some time.

I then made my way to San Cristobal de las Casas to volunteer with Worldpackers for another 2 weeks and then went to Tulum (I don’t recommend this route and i’ll explain later on).

There are over 200 Worldpackers opportunities in Mexico which means that you too can travel throughout Mexico without spending on accomodation! Get 10$ off your annual membership by signing up here . 

My trip took a twist in Tulum, and then I ended up visiting the Yucatan region which include Merida , before going to Oaxaca , making my way down to the coast (Zipolite, Mazunte, Puerto Escondido) and that is where I met someone and started traveling with a guy.

I felt much more comfortable hitchhiking with a man and we’d stay in much more “dangerous” places (we pretty much hitchhiked through all of Central America and in countries like El Salvador and Honduras ). But that being said, before meeting him, I had been in some pretty interesting situations by myself, which included 12h overnight buses, random road trip with people from Couchsurfing (should I mention them drink driving?), and parties/48h after parties with the locals (to only name a few adventures). 

I also did most of the Quintana Roo area ( Cancun , Playa del Carmen , Tulum , Bacalar , Majahual, Chetumal ).

I didn’t make it to Guadalajara and the whole North of Mexico - areas that I really wanted to visit despite it’s reputation, but in hindsight, I don’t think there’s exactly any region that is really dangerous.

That being said, perhaps my perception of danger and risk has been a little warped after being in that side of the world for so long and being so often exposed to cartels and weapons (just cause that’s how it is over there, or at least in the places that I went to). 

Don't miss out:  Tulum vs. Cancun: which one to choose  and The ultimate Tulum travel guide .

Recent studies and a simple internet search will give you the list of safest areas and regions in Mexico and those that are the most dangerous, but have you ever actually questioned what is the danger and how are these danger rates calculated?

The following regions are said to be "Level 4" warnings which means "do not travel":

• Tamaulipas The main reasons being crime and gang related activity (aka cartels). Usually these crimes are within gangs and they wouldn't specifically target travellers or tourists, but then again, it's only up to you to decide how much of a risk-taker you are or not. I personally haven't traveled to these regions (yet) but have met many local females who live and work in those regions and it's sort of the same basic principle: just stay out of trouble . If you stick to the more "touristic" areas and volunteer in hostels , things really cannot go that wrong for you.

I do find the information on the internet a little skewed, as many travel blogs and forums will advise you to go to certain places because their travel style is boutique or 5* hotels, and taking private taxis... whereas for other types of travellers, the same destination can be a totally different experience. Tulum and Playa del Carmen are said to be safe areas in Mexico and I agree - to a certain extent. When I was there a year ago there were cartel wars and shootings every single week. Did I ever experience or see anything? No. But my friends did. Was I lucky? Maybe, or perhaps it's just being street smart and not putting myself voluntarily in danger. In all honestly I don't personally trust the information on the internet (even on official Mexican websites) as a lot of things are simply corrupt in that country, because of all the gang related activity which basically runs the economy.

My main sources of information that I trusted, were locals living in those places who see and experience things first hand with their own eyes.

That being said, if you're really concerned about safety in Mexico , here are the best areas to visit (according to another recent study and personal travel experience):

• Mexico City: Roma (Norte and Sur), Condesa, Centro Historico, Coayacan to name a few neighbourhoods (take note: Polanco is the elite/super rich neighbourhood but it doesn't mean it's the safest!). There are a lot of volunteering opportunities here, including this one as a start!
• Merida (colonial city)
• Puerto Vallarta (family and LGBTQ friendly)
• Sayulita (beach town with an older crowd)
• San Miguel de Allende (known as a melting pot)
• San Cristobal de las Casas
• Oaxaca (city and the coast, mainly Mazunte/Zipolite)

As promised earlier on in the article, the reason why I do not recommend going from San Cristobal de las Casas to Tulum , is because both locations are so different that I would advise to have some form of transition between the two.

San Cris is up in the mountains of Oaxaca, it is quite a spiritual place (with many different types of ceremonies to attend if you're into that), it is a bit cold (depending on what time of the year you're going), it's small, has a french influence, has really good vibes and a lot of locals.

Tulum on the other hand, is the Monaco or St Tropez of Mexico. You will find every single type of influencer, DJ, model, and rich American tourist there... very different vibes, and both locations don't go well back to back.

So on that note, don't hesitate to follow our Worldpackers community on Instagram , TikTok  and Youtube . Plan your trip to Mexico and let us know how it goes! I'm sure you will have an incredible time, and as a final tip... don't drink the tap water !

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Christelle Horn

28 y/o Singaporean/French female traveler. I started backpacking with Worldpackers in August 2020: I said goodbye to my Parisian life and bought a one-way ticket to Mexico. Since then, i've spent 7 months there, backpacked all through Central America, lived in Manchester (UK) for a few months, traveled all around Europe (I have 12 countries left to visit before I would've seen all European countries).. I had a little pit stop in Athens from August22-January 2023 and I resumed my trip on this side of the world with Panama in February, and now I am in South America. My long term goal is to open up a wellness hostel in South America, which is why i'll be traveling all through the continent until I find the right location, or opportunity :)

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Solo Travel To Mexico City: Your Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

By Trisha Velarmino. This guide to traveling alone in Mexico City contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Considering solo travel to Mexico City , but need help with the planning?

Then you’re in the right place!

Mexico City is one of the world’s largest and most vibrant metropolises. It offers an extraordinary fusion of ancient history and modern life, housing numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the historic center and Xochimilco, alongside contemporary architecture and cutting-edge restaurants.

Its rich culture is reflected in countless museums, vibrant street art, traditional markets, and festivals, which vividly showcase the country’s artistic heritage and culinary diversity.

Exploring Mexico City offers an immersive experience of warm hospitality, a diverse food scene, timeless traditions, and captivating history, providing an enriching travel destination for any traveler.

As someone who lives in Mexico and has lived in Mexico City, I can provide insights into traveling alone as a woman in this Latin American capital that has a notorious safety reputation.

Along with travel tips, this Mexico City solo travel guide will give you a general feel of what’s it like to travel here alone from a foreign woman who has lived here.

Mexico City Solo Travel Itinerary (Quick List) If you’re short on time, here are a few top picks and tips for solo travel to Mexico City. You can find even more in the full itinerary below! Best Neighborhoods To Stay: – Roma hotels – Condesa hotels – including excellent hostels like Casa Pancha & Roomies Hostel Condesa – Polanco hotels – Click here for a full list of Mexico City hotels & rentals Top-Rated Tours: – Xochimilco, Coyoacán, and Frida Kahlo Museum Tour – Hot Air Balloon Flight over Teotihuacan – Chapultepec Castle & Anthropology Museum Tour – Click here for a full list Mexico City tours Culinary Experiences: – Private Food Tour of Mexico City – EatWith (eat in a local home) – Click here for a full list of Mexico City food experiences Mexico City Safety Tips: While Mexico City is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves .

Table of Contents

Resources For Solo Travel In Mexico City [Free Course]

But first, before we get into our Mexico City solo female travel guide, I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to learn about solo female travel in Mexico City.

Solo Travel In Mexico City: Is It Worth It?

Mexico City may not be your first destination in mind when it comes to solo female travel so let’s kick this guide off by answering the question, “is it even worth it?”

Mexico City offers an engaging blend of diverse cultures, fascinating history, and unique attractions catering to solo travelers.

It’s one of the top places to travel solo in Mexico – especially as it’s home to some of the world’s best museums, such as the Museum of Anthropology and the Frida Kahlo Museum, showcasing a rich cultural and artistic history.

The city’s culinary scene is also world-renowned, from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.

In 2021, Mexico City became a top spot for digital nomads due to the lower cost of living. From then, the digital nomad community of foreigners kept growing, which may be a reasonable justification for you to visit.

Meaning, you can easily make friends and meet people here as a solo traveler. It’s a melting pot – everyone’s here!

Where Is Mexico City?

Mexico City, the capital of Mexico , is located in the southeastern part of the country. It is situated in the Valley of Mexico, also called the Basin of Mexico, a large valley in the high plateaus in the center of Mexico, at an altitude of 2,240 meters or about 7,350 feet.

The city is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, creating a uniquely beautiful landscape. Geographically, it’s roughly in the middle of the country, making it a significant hub for transportation and travel in Mexico.

Best Time To Visit Mexico City

The best time to visit Mexico City for good weather is during the dry season, which runs from late November to April .

During these months, the city experiences less rainfall and has an average temperature of around 20-24°C (68-75°F), providing a pleasant climate for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions.

Remember that Mexico City is at a high altitude, so the city can have warm days but cooler nights. Packing a jacket or sweater is advised even during these months.

Actually, make sure to always pack a jacket because the weather in Mexico City can be really unpredictable. It also can have occasional rain showers even in the dry season so expect different layers of weather when you visit.

I personally think that Mexico City is an all-year-round destination, but I love rain so it might be different for you. I also live in Cabo where we don’t experience rain at all, so visiting Mexico City with a different climate is always a joy for me.

The rainy season in Mexico City typically begins in May and ends in October, with the heaviest rainfall usually occurring from June to August. Keep this in mind if you want to avoid a wet trip to Mexico City.

Getting To Mexico City

Mexico City, being the capital, has all the transportation types that make travel from here to other parts of the country easy. For instance, if you are going to other parts of Mexico, flights will always stop in Mexico City.

Mexico City International Airport is the main flying hub, not just for Mexico but for Latin America. Most flights from the USA, Canada, Europe, and even Japan are direct!

Once you arrive at the airport, it’s relatively easy to get to your hotel; however, remember that Ubers are not allowed to operate in Mexico City or any other airports in Mexico.

You have to pay for a licensed taxi to get to your hotel, which can be double the price of an Uber. There is no airport train, unfortunately, and if you want to take the bus, you have to walk out of the airport (which is quite a walk).

The good news is you can take Uber to the airport to save on costs. They are allowed to drop off passengers but not pick them up.

Getting Around Mexico City As A Solo Traveler

Mexico City is a big city and as a tourist, you will most probably focus on the trendy neighborhoods of Condesa , Roma , and Polanco . These are the top three areas for tourists and are labeled as the safest areas.

Within these neighborhoods, you don’t need public transportation. You can even walk from one neighborhood to another. The bulk of your things to do in Mexico City are here, so get ready to do a lot of walking!

If you need to go to another tourist attraction outside these areas – like the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacan – Uber is cheap and easy to hail.

As unpredictable as the weather is, heavy traffic in Mexico City is also inevitable. Personally, when taking Uber, I always expect traffic jams no matter what time of the day.

Mexico City has a train but I don’t take it because Uber is cheap and more convenient. The city’s train is not well-maintained and in the last few years there have been many incidents of collisions and accidents.

Buses are also common and can be found everywhere, but you need to speak very good Spanish to be able to navigate or ask around if you are on the right bus.

I would only recommend buses if you are going to nearby cities like Queretaro or San Miguel de Allende. These are first-class buses and are really easy to hop into. Within the city, just take an Uber.

Mexico City Travel Map

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a map for visiting Mexico City solo. It includes most of the main points and activities mentioned below pre-plotted:

Click here for an interactive version of the map .

Is Mexico City Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

According to Travel Safe-Abroad , while Mexico City does experience crime, travelers who stay aware of their surroundings and practice common sense should be fine – especially as tourists are rarely targeted. That being said, pickpocketing is common, so make sure you know how to avoid pickpockets .

In my opinion, solo female travel safety is objective and personal. I do feel safe in Mexico City because first, I have been living in Mexico for the last five years; I know how to behave and move here like I am a Mexican.

Additionally, I also speak Spanish which makes locals not mistake me as a foreigner. Sure, they know I am a foreigner by looking at me but when I start speaking to them in their language, they treat me as a local.

As in many other destinations, solo female travel is often daunting if it’s your first time, especially in a city with a bad press when it comes to safety.

I also believe that safety is not dependent on the places we travel to but on our behavior when we are traveling. In Mexico, I learned that the more you lay low and don’t draw too much attention to yourself, the more that travel becomes safe.

What do I mean by “drawing attention?”

For many of our North American neighbors, Mexico is a place to party, and partying often means drugs. I always tell my friends that buying drugs is the only reason why you will get into trouble anywhere in Mexico (or in the world).

When it comes to how to stay safe in Mexico City, know this: you can enjoy the city without drugs. Do not get too drunk and do not walk alone after 10pm. Sure, you can drink and have fun as this is also a party city; but, make sure you can handle yourself and bring yourself home safely.

Where To Stay On A Solo Trip To Mexico City

Mexico City is a big city, so the best areas to stay in are within the areas where tourists frequent.

Known for its artistic and bohemian vibe, Roma is home to indie boutiques, art galleries, and a thriving culinary scene. Here, you can wander down tree-lined streets, explore vintage markets, or dine in trendy eateries.

Roma is walkable and has good public transportation options, including the metro and buses.

Click here for a full list of Roma hotels!

Known as Mexico City’s most upscale neighborhood, I recommend staying in Polanco if you’re looking for high-end shopping, luxury hotels, and top-tier restaurants.

It’s one of the city’s safest neighborhoods. Public transit is readily available, though the area is also walkable.

Click here for a full list of Polanco hotels!

Popular among young professionals, Condesa offers a mix of vibrant nightlife, lush parks, and Art Deco architecture. Enjoy the cafe culture, stroll in Parque Mexico, or get into its vibrant nightlife.

Condesa is pedestrian-friendly, and you can also use the EcoBici bike-sharing system.

Here you’ll also find some of the best hostels in Mexico City, like Casa Pancha and Roomies Hostel Condesa . If you don’t like the idea of sharing a room with strangers, keep in mind that many hostels also offer private rooms.

Click here for a full list of Condesa hotels!

Steeped in history, Coyoacan is the place to explore the Frida Kahlo Museum, or visit the vibrant Coyoacan Market. It’s one of the best places to stay for small-town charm, with cobbled streets and colonial architecture.

Safety can vary, so it’s advised to take common precautions. The neighborhood is served by the light rail system and buses. Walking is also an enjoyable option here.

Click here for a full list of Coyoacan hotels!

Hotels & Rentals In Mexico City

If you want to research local Mexico City hotels as well as self-contained stays, this map   can help you compare your options. It’s set to show hotels and rentals in the Roma neighborhood, but you can easily change this based on where you’re staying:

Are you a plant-based traveler? Here are some of the best vegan-friendly resorts in Mexico !

Top Things To Do Alone In Mexico City

As a large city, you will never run out of things to do in Mexico City. To help you with planning your solo itinerary, here are the best things you shouldn’t miss, especially if it’s your first time.

1. Frida Kahlo Museum

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Coyoacan, the Frida Kahlo Museum , or “Casa Azul” (Blue House), is the childhood home of the famous Mexican painter.

It was transformed into a museum in 1958, four years after Kahlo’s death. The museum houses an extensive collection of Kahlo’s work, personal belongings, and pre-Hispanic artifacts she collected.

Tip: it’s one of the most visited museums in Mexico City, so buy your tickets 1-3 months in advance. You can click here to purchase them . If you’re interested in exploring art in Mexico City , this is a must-do.

2. Teotihuacan

When exploring Mexico City as a solo female traveler, you can’t miss Teotihuacan .

Known as the “City of the Gods,” it’s an ancient Mesoamerican city located 50 kilometers (31 miles) northeast of Mexico City. It flourished from the 1st to the 7th century AD, making it one of the most significant archaeological sites in Mexico.

Here, you can explore the immense Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon , and stroll down the Avenue of the Dead .

Tip: go early to avoid the midday sun and bring plenty of water. Wear comfortable shoes – it’s a lot of walking!

You can also opt for one of the many guided tours that visit here, like:

• Teotihuacan Early Access Tour with Tequila Tasting
• Hot Air Balloon Flight over Teotihuacan
• Teotihuacan Private Tour from Mexico City
• Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine, Tlatelolco & Tequila Tasting Tour

3. Xochimilco

Xochimilco , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its extensive network of canals and artificial islands, or chinampas . Traditionally decorated, colorful flat-bottomed boats called trajineras navigate these canals.

The area offers a glimpse into the ancient agricultural practices of the Aztecs and is a popular spot for festivities.

You can visit the site on its own, or combine the experience with others on a guided tour from Mexico City like a Xochimilco, Coyoacán, and Frida Kahlo Museum Tour or a City Tour and Xochimilco Floating Gardens Experience .

4. Anthropology Museum

The National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City is one of the world’s most renowned anthropology museums.

It houses artifacts from Mexico’s pre-Columbian era, including the famous Aztec Calendar Stone and the replica tomb of the Mayan ruler Pakal .

The museum is a stunning modernist architecture with a massive stone umbrella at its center. It’s also vast, so allot at least half a day to explore.

5. Grutas Tolantongo

Grutas Tolantongo is a natural paradise in the Mezquital Valley of Hidalgo , approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) north of Mexico City.

It’s a unique resort set in a canyon, famous for its strikingly beautiful hot spring caves and turquoise-blue, mineral-infused pools situated on the cliffs.

You’ve probably come across this on Instagram as it is one of the most popular Instagrammable spots in Mexico!

6. Chapultepec Park

Chapultepec Park , often compared to Central Park in New York, is one of the largest city parks in the Western Hemisphere. It’s an amazing place housing numerous attractions, including Chapultepec Castle, several museums, a zoo, and a lake.

The park has been a site of significance since Aztec times and offers a welcome respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.

I recommend visiting on a weekday if possible, as it can get crowded on weekends. Don’t miss the view from Chapultepec Castle !

7. Centro Historico

Centro Historico , or the Historic Center, is the heart of Mexico City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Established on the ruins of Tenochtitlán , the capital of the Aztec empire, it became the center of New Spain after the Spanish conquest.

The neighborhood showcases the city’s rich history – with buildings dating from the 16th to the 19th centuries – and is a living testament to Mexico City’s cultural evolution.

Key attractions include:

• the Zócalo , one of the largest public squares in the world,
• the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral , the largest cathedral in the Americas,
• and the National Palace , which houses Diego Rivera’s famous murals depicting Mexico’s history.

Nearby, the Templo Mayor , an Aztec archaeological site, offers a glimpse into pre-Hispanic times.

The area is also known for its bustling markets, boutiques, and eateries, where you can sample local cuisine. A maze of streets, brimming with architectural treasures, museums, and art galleries, make the Centro Historico a must-visit in Mexico City.\

8. Chinatown

Mexico City’s Chinatown , known as “Barrio Chino,” is a small two-block area located in the historic city center on Dolores Street . While modest in size, it’s a vibrant district with a rich history.

Its development began in the late 19th century with the influx of Chinese immigrants to Mexico. It’s a great place to experience Chinese-Mexican culture, explore shops selling Asian goods, and enjoy Chinese cuisine with a Mexican twist.

The district is known for its colorful archway, street food stalls, and annual Chinese New Year celebrations.

9. Eat street food

Fun fact: there are 46,000 taquerias in Mexico, of which 2,862 are in Mexico City!

Mexico City’s street food culture is an integral part of its identity, reflecting its rich culinary tradition. From taco stands to tlacoyos (oval-shaped cornmeal patties topped with a variety of ingredients), the city’s streets are teeming with mouthwatering food.

One of the most beloved street foods is the taco al pastor, a Lebanese-inspired dish made with marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served with pineapple.

Also worth trying are churros (fried dough dusted with sugar) and elotes (corn on the cob served with chili, lime, cheese, and mayo).

One of the best ways to explore local street food is on a guided tour, such as a Mexico City Street Food Experience or a Private Food Tour of Mexico City . You can click here for a full list of Mexico City food tours .

10. Eat in a local home

If you’re still hungry after your tour, a guaranteed way to meet people as a solo traveler in Mexico City is to book a dining experience in a local home. One company that offers this is EatWith , which also offers culinary tours, classes, and experiences.

11. Discover Mexico City nightlife

Mexico City’s nightlife is as diverse as its daylife, with a mix of traditional cantinas, dance clubs, mezcalerias, and jazz lounges.

Zona Rosa and Polanco are known for stylish bars and dance clubs, while Roma and Condesa offer a bohemian vibe with craft beer pubs, mezcalerias , and live music venues.

The city’s nightlife is a blend of modern and traditional, with the age-old cantinas in the historic center serving tequila and pulque , a fermented maguey sap drink.

Mexico City is a night owl, and bars are open until 5 AM! There will be street food all over the city operating until late, too.

Top Tours For Solo Travelers In Mexico City

While traveling to Mexico City alone as a woman can feel daunting, one way to immerse yourself in local culture while meeting other people is by booking a guided tour. A few top-rated options include:

• Xochimilco, Coyoacán, and Frida Kahlo Museum Tour
• Puebla, Cholula & Tonantzintla Day Trip from Mexico City
• Private Food Tour of Mexico City
• Chapultepec Castle & Anthropology Museum Tour

Click here for a full list of tours in Mexico City !

Tips For Solo Dining In Mexico City

Exploring food in Mexico City is one of the top local experiences – even if you’re eating alone. Here are some tips for dining out when traveling alone to Mexico City:

Opt for street food. Street food in Mexico City is communal so you will often find yourself standing or sitting with locals. Along with giving you the opportunity to connect with locals and meet other people, it also helps you save money and stick to a solo travel budget .

Every cafe is a digital nomad hub. Particularly in Roma and Condesa, you will often come across foreigners – who are also traveling solo – working on their laptops while eating. Even if you are not sharing a table, the conversation will flow naturally.

Ask for a bar seat. Bartenders are often chatty, welcoming, and entertaining, especially to solo travelers. Plus, fellow solo travelers also tend to sit by the bar, so don’t be surprised if you end your meal with a new friend.

Always say hola. Mexico and the Latin culture generally have strong greeting cultures. Everyone says hola (hello) to everyone, and it’s not weird. They will say hola back. Try entering a restaurant and say “hola, buenos dias!” (hello, good morning!), even to diners. You’ll see that Mexico City locals will typically respond.

Go on a food tour . When traveling to Mexico City alone or even in a group, at least one food tour is obligatory. Apart from meeting other travelers on a tour, you’ll get to taste delicious Mexican food. Additionally, you might opt to eat in a local home to have a true taste of local culture.

Treat yourself to a fine dining restaurant. Mexico City is home to many best restaurants in the world with affordable 9-course tasting menus from $140 USD. Go to Pujol or Quintonil to get an interactive meal.

Estimated Mexico City Solo Trip Cost

For a solo traveler, a decent hotel in Mexico City starts at $55 USD. Street food is around $3 USD while a meal at a nice restaurant can cost $9 USD.

If you want to splurge on accommodations, many five-star hotels start from $90 USD. Tasting menus in very popular restaurants cost $90 – $120 USD.

All tours range from $25-$125 USD, depending on the activity that you are doing. There are many free things to do in Mexico City, too!

Not including accommodations, $30 USD per day is a very good budget for solo travel to Mexico City.

And if you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation in Mexico City, check out this map   to peruse a mix of hotels and holiday rentals in the Roma neighborhood:

Travel Insurance For Solo Travel In Mexico City

When visiting Mexico City solo — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Frequently Asked Questions About Mexico City Solo Travel

Still have questions about visiting Mexico City alone? Here are answers to common queries:

Q) Is Mexico City safe to travel alone?

Like any major city, Mexico City has areas that are safe and others that are less so, but overall, it is generally safe for solo travelers who take standard precautions such as avoiding less secure areas, especially at night, and being mindful of their belongings.

Q) How many days do you need in Mexico City?

For a first-time visitor, a trip of about 4 to 5 days is usually sufficient to explore the key attractions of Mexico City, such as the historic center, the Frida Kahlo Museum, the pyramids of Teotihuacan, and Xochimilco. However, if you wish to delve deeper into the city’s culture, and explore its diverse neighborhoods, museums, and cuisine at a more leisurely pace, you might want to consider a week or longer.

Q) What are the top things to do alone in Mexico City at night?

Mexico City at night offers a range of activities for solo travelers. You can immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene, enjoy traditional mariachi music at Plaza Garibaldi, attend a Ballet Folklorico performance, or partake in cultural events at various museums. Always remember to stay in well-lit, busy areas and exercise standard precautions for your safety.

Q) Is Mexico City a walkable city?

Mexico City is quite expansive, but many of its central neighborhoods, such as Condesa, Roma, Polanco, and the historic center, are indeed walkable with many attractions, restaurants, and shops close to each other. However, given the city’s size and the distance between some attractions, you’ll likely need to use public transportation or taxis at times.

Q) Can I use Uber in Mexico City?

Yes, Uber is widely available and commonly used in Mexico City, providing a convenient and often safer alternative to traditional taxis. It’s an efficient way to navigate the city, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the public transportation system.

Final Thoughts On Solo Travel To Mexico City

Mexico City is a world-class city despite its bad press. It is easy to travel here alone as a woman because there’s always an opportunity to meet people.

You’ll see that you will keep coming back after your first solo trip to Mexico City! Consider your source and only ask people who have been instead of browsing the news.

The situation on the ground is always different, so take advice from someone who knows Mexico City well.

Bonus  Mexico Travel Guides :

15 Best Beach Clubs In Holbox Island, Mexico

6 Best Beaches In Holbox, Mexico (Stunning!)

23 Best Things To Do In Holbox Island, Mexico (+ Sample Itinerary!)

14 Travel Tips For Puerto Vallarta For A Fun & Safe Trip (In-Depth Guide!)

Solo Travel In Puerto Vallarta: The Ultimate Guide

5 Active Ways To Explore Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

Puebla, Mexico: The World’s Only To Make Talavera Ceramics

12 Things You Didn’t Know About Puebla, Mexico

21 Best Vegan Resorts In Mexico

Solo Travel In Mexico City: The Ultimate Guide

What would you add to this solo travel to Mexico City travel guide?

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About The Author

Currently living in Mexico, Trisha Velarmino is an award-winning journalist who produced TV and radio shows for major channels like BBC and CNN. She’s given TEDx talks about creating genuine content and making the Internet a better place for learning and development. She’s the founder of P.S. I’m On My Way and Mexico Insider . You can follow her adventures on Instagram and TikTok .

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Top 5 destinations for solo female travel in mexico.

• Published February 24, 2022

Looking to do some solo travel in Mexico? With a plethora of historical sites like ruined temples and ornate cathedrals, and nature galore such as cenotes, mountains and white-sand beaches, Mexico is a vibrant destination that’s great for solo female travel. 

If you’re going it alone, there are a few places you should definitely include on your itinerary.

Five Best Places in Mexico for Solo Female Travel

Mexico city, mexico.

While many might be hesitant about going to Mexico City alone, it actually makes for a great solo female travel destination.

If you love big cities like New York, London, and Barcelona, you’ll love Mexico City as well. There are more than 100 museums, historic Unesco World Heritage Sites, ancient Aztec ruins, and of course, tacos ! Plus, there’s a reliable public transport system throughout the city that makes it easy to get around. Though it may not have the best reputation in the media, travelers in the know will always sing praises of the underrated Mexico City.

Mexico City has all kinds of transport options: bus, metro, and even a city-wide bike sharing program called EcoBici. There’s also Uber, which saves you precious travel time. For a day trip around Mexico City, the country’s ADO bus is the perfect, inexpensive way to get wherever you need to be.

Speaking of day trips, one of the coolest hidden gems in Mexico is located about four hours away from Mexico City in the state of Hidalgo. Here, you’ll find the Las Grutas de Tolantongo Caves, a natural water playground with hot spring pools built onto the side of a cliff.

Merida, Yucatan

Merida is located in the famed Yucatan Peninsula, about 3.5 hours drive from Cancun and Tulum, though it feels a world away. This colorful historic city is a hidden gem for now, but it is slowly growing in popularity and reputation.

Merida holds several titles including Cultural Capital of the Yucatan and Safest City in Mexico; the latter making it the ideal place for solo female travelers. 

It’s also perfect for culture travelers who want to experience ‘real’ Mexican and Mayan culture. While millions flock to nearby Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Riviera Maya, those wanting to see another side of Mexico always head to Merida.

Once in the city, there are so many things to do including visiting museums, strolling the colorful streets, shopping for Mayan artesanias (handicrafts), and eating at amazing restaurants. In fact, Yucatan food in Merida has even been featured on Netflix shows like Taco Chronicles and Chef’s Table: BBQ .

As it’s still an up-and-coming destination, you can stay in a nice boutique hotel in Merida at a relatively low cost. There is an airport right in the city—Merida International Airport—so it’s also easy to access.

Merida is the capital of the Yucatan state, and located in the near-dead center of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. This makes it the ideal homebase to stay in while you explore other parts of the peninsula like the Chichen Itza Ruins, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Tulum, Quintana Roo

Tulum is a Mexico hot spot, and has been for some time now. Known as one of the most Instagrammable Mexico destinations, you may have seen photos and YouTube videos of this beautiful beachfront town. However, Tulum is more than just pretty pictures! This Mexico beach town sits right on the Caribbean Sea, so you know there’s plenty of beautiful beaches to lounge around on. It also caters to the more luxurious traveler, with beach clubs that cater to your every whim and elaborate swimming pools with swings, hammocks, and other waterside accessories.

Besides the beaches, there are also cenotes in Tulum, which are natural pools in the jungle. They are located all over the Yucatan Peninsula, but some of the best cenotes in Mexico are located just minutes from downtown Tulum.

There’s also the Tulum Ruins, a Mayan archeological site right on the beach. After exploring, you can take the staircase down to the beach and jump in the sea. There are plenty of taco shops and vegan cafes to indulge in after a refreshing swim.

Tulum is very popular with solo travelers and backpackers, so it’s very easy to meet people and get a lay of the land, including areas to avoid as a solo female. Though it has a big reputation, it’s actually a small town and one of the famed Mexico pueblos magicos (magic towns), making it easy to navigate.

Baja California Sur State

Mexico’s west coast consists of two states: Baja California Sur (south) and Baja California state, which is sometimes called Baja California Norte (north). These two states make up Mexico’s famed Baja California Peninsula.

Much like the west coast of the US, Mexico’s west coast is super laid back, and has a similar vibe to California. In fact, Baja is full of expats who have relocated from California. As a result, this is a part of Mexico you can visit and not have to speak Spanish at all.

Of the two Baja states in Mexico, Baja Sur is the more popular of the two. Here, you have the top destinations like Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo (AKA Los Cabos), as well as La Paz, Todos Santos, and the up-and-coming Loreto.

Baja Sur is the perfect place to do a solo road trip, as the best way to get around is by car. It’s considered safe to drive in Mexico, as long as you’re off the road when it’s dark. Car rentals average only about $20 USD per day, and you can rent with a driving license that is valid in your country of residence. International driving licenses are also recommended for ease of car hiring.

The Baja Peninsula is a great year-round destination, with whale watching and gorgeous weather in the winter. In the summers, it’s the perfect time to hit the Baja beaches.

Baja Sur has some of the best beaches in the country—and what some say is the most beautiful beach in Mexico, Playa Balandra near La Paz. The snorkeling and diving scene on the Baja coast is legendary, and this area was famously called “the aquarium of the world” by Ocean Explorer and Naval Officer, Jacques Cousteau.

San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

Last but not least is San Miguel de Allende, a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful historical cities in Mexico. San Miguel has good weather for much of the year, so you can visit at any time.

Residents are a mix of older retired expats and younger artists. The city is also known as one of the foodie hot spots of Mexico, and part of the season 12 finale of cooking show Top Chef was even filmed there.

If you want to get lost in a beautiful town, San Miguel is your place. Each building and home is somehow more beautiful than the next, and the cobblestone streets that wind along hidden alleyways only add to the charm.

The zocalo (town square) is centered around one of the most beautiful churches in Mexico, the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel. This large gothic style church is the crown jewel of San Miguel, and everyone gathers here at the Jardín Allende (garden) just in front of it.

Just outside of town there are some nice hot springs, a beautiful botanical garden and also some ancient ruins at the Cañada de la Virgin site. Each of these places is easily accessible by Uber or public transportation from San Miguel.

Looking to make your stay in Mexico a little more permanent? Check out our Guide to Living in Mexico as a Digital Nomad.

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5 reasons why Mexico is the ultimate solo travel destination

Bear with me, because I’m about to get pretentious about one of my favourite destinations. If Mexico isn’t on your list to travel, well I’m sorry, but I’m quite confident you haven’t fully appreciated all it has to offer – especially for solo travellers.

I didn’t always have this progressive perspective on Mexico travel. As a Canadian, I used to view a trip to Mexico exclusively as an all-inclusive resort stay with a day trip to Chichen Itza. So if you were to tell me a year ago that I’d be spending nearly two weeks on a solo trip that’d take me to Mexico City, Oaxaca, Puebla and Mazunte, I’d think you’d have me confused for someone else.

But luckily for me, this trip would end up being one of my all-time favourites.

Eating one of many elotes in Oaxaca

Mexico truly has something for every traveller: an unparalleled cuisine for foodies, one of the best museums in the world for history buffs (Museo Nacional de Antropología) and incredible natural beauty for nature lovers. And for solo travellers, it offers even more added benefits. I experienced them myself during both my independent travels and time on Intrepid’s 9-day Mexico Real Food Adventure tour.

Here are a few reasons why Mexico is the perfect solo travel destination.

There’s a diverse range of offerings

As a solo traveller with a limited time and budget, I love doing trips where I can tick a couple boxes. It’s why I opt for places where I can satisfy my hyperactive need for food, nature, history and culture stimulation, all at once. For all my fellow multi-purpose travellers, Mexico might as well be our mecca. Delicious cuisine? Check. A fascinating history? You got it. Unparalleled natural beauty? Uh, duh! Mexico is blessed with diverse natural landscapes, including the Sierra Madre mountains to arid stretches dotted with agave (a.k.a. tequila and mezcal territory).

Zapotec ruins in Oaxaca Valley

Every day of my trip was jammed-packed with bucket list-worthy moments. Heck, in a 24-hour stretch in Mexico City alone, I got serenaded by a Mariachi band, ate some of the city’s best tacos and visited the famous Teotihuacan pyramids on Urban Adventures’ Beyond Mexico City: Hidden Teotihuacan & Family Dinner tour.

CHECK OUT INTREPID’S MEXICO TRIP EXCLUSIVE FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS

You’ll feel welcomed

If there’s one thing I’ve learned travelling, it’s that the local people want you there. I mean, as long as you’re actually positively benefitting their country, that is. And Mexico is no exception to this. Wherever I went, I could feel this sense of genuine hospitality – from the kind woman at a Mexico City taqueria who patiently helped me order tacos as I blubbered through broken Spanish, to the lovely family of obsidian makers that helped me find the perfect necklace.

Locals say hi in Teotihuacan

I can’t speak on behalf of Mexico’s busy beach towns and all-inclusives, but everywhere I went I felt welcomed. There was even a moment in Oaxaca City where one of the many recurring street parties was breaking out, and I was welcomed in to crash the festivities (with shots of mezcal, of course).

READ MORE: PLACES IN MEXICO YOU MUST VISIT, ACCORDING TO AN INTREPID LEADER

Enjoy a rising number of travel options

Gone are the days where tourists flock to Mexico exclusively for spring breaks and stretches of beaches. More travellers are heading to Mexico to experience the real Mexico. In fact, one of my coworkers recently spent three months backpacking through Mexico with friends. It was him that told me about his adventures, and I’m so glad I let these anecdotal tales convince me to go.

Trying scorpions during an Urban Adventures tour in Mexico City

After travelling a few days solo and then on my Mexico Real Food Adventure tour, I fell deeply in love with the country. The days solo I stayed in a hostel, which was great (other than they were loudly filming a Mexican soap opera at night during my stay, but that’s another story). But the tour part of my trip was a real highlight.

My local leader, Balam , showed us the ins and outs of Mexico’s delicious food scene, the group was absolutely wonderful and it was so nice having the logistics planned for me.

My Intrepid group in Oaxaca (and mezcal, naturally)

It’s easy to get to

We’ve all been there: the long-haul journey of three different connecting flights (*shivers*). Not ideal. While Mexico is definitely a big trip for those living far away, it’s still a pretty easy place to get to thanks to Mexico City’s prime location and well-connected international airport.

For Londoners, you can get to Mexico City with just one stop in Atlanta, Amsterdam or Paris. Aussies coming from Sydney can get to Mexico City with one stop in either Houston or Los Angeles. And for us lucky North Americans, it’s a cakewalk. My flight to Mexico City from Toronto was a laughable 5-hour direct flight – about the same time (and price) it takes me to get to my parents in Calgary.

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It’s really the coolest

Street art in Oaxaca City

Call it ignorance, but before going to Mexico, I didn’t realize how ridiculously cool Mexico actually is. I knew about the eternal awesomeness of Frida Kahlo, the epic taco scene and the catchy tunes of Mariachi. But Mexico is so packed with other underrated gems that you can spend a lifetime uncovering them all.

Let’s start where it all began: Mesoamerica. Did you know there are ruins of an Aztec pyramid right in the centre of Mexico City? Yeah, I hadn’t either (it’s called Templo Mayor if you want to Google it).

The best meal I had in Mexico City

You might even find the ancient civilizations of Mexico – Aztecs, Zapotecs and Mayas – so interesting that you’ll spend seven hours in the National Museum of Anthropology like I did.

And if modern society is more your thing, fear not. You can enjoy Oaxaca City’s blossoming craft beer scene, catch a Lucha Libre show in Puebla and visit the creepy Island of the Dolls instead.

Want to travel Mexico with fellow solo travellers? Check out our 9-day Mexico Real Food Adventure – for Solo Travellers tour.

Not a solo traveller? Check out our range of other amazing Mexico tours.

(Image of locals in Teotihuacan c/o Lucy Piper for Intrepid Travel, all other images taken by Libby Shabada)

Feeling inspired?

Libby Shabada

Canadian-born nature and animal lover. I travel for the cultural enrichment, scenic views, and tasty eats. Other than being a food enthusiast, I dabble in reading, napping, and amateur crocheting. Yes, I’m in my early twenties. In addition to not acting my age, I try to avoid cliché travel quotes. But it is true that I, “haven’t been everywhere but it’s on my list”. Please never let me say that out loud again.

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Solo Female Travel in Mexico — Is Mexico Safe?

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Is it safe for a woman to travel alone in Mexico? ABSOLUTELY.

Mexico gets a undeserved bad reputation for travel, particularly in the United States. Much of this is due to the cable news environment with its exaggerated narratives that Mexico is full of drug cartels and murderers.

This is not what Mexico is actually like. In fact, the real Mexico is so different that you’ll be stunned.

My name is Kate and I write about solo female travel for a living. And I’ve spent a lot of time traveling in Mexico, including living in the lovely city of Mérida for a few months.

Even though I’ve been to more than 80 countries and all seven continents, there’s something about Mexico that pulls me back again and again. I hope to spend every winter there from now on!

Mexico is one of my favorite countries — both in general and for solo female travel.

This post was last updated in January 2021.

Table of Contents

Mexico is Great for Solo Female Travel

If this is your first time traveling solo, Mexico is a great choice.  Mexico has good travel infrastructure, excellent hotels at a variety of price points, and several well-worn tourist trails, especially in the Yucatán. The food is familiar and delicious. English is spoken in touristy areas, but even when it’s not, Spanish is an easy enough language to pick up on your own. And the people are kind and helpful.

My advice for first-time solo female travelers is to plan your itinerary carefully — especially transportation. Figure out where you’ll be staying ahead of time, plan your forms of transportation (whether you take buses, rent a car, book a shuttle transfer, or fly between destinations), and the tours and activities you’d like to do.

And don’t skip on getting a SIM card (I use Telcel, which you can pick up at the airport and recharge at local convenience stores). It can help you with everything from GPS to translation.

I usually advise travelers to be flexible with their itineraries, but I think first-time solo female travelers benefit from having more structure.

If you’ve previously traveled solo, you’ll find Mexico to be an easy destination, especially if you speak some Spanish.  But Mexico doesn’t have to be a lie-on-the-beach-and-don’t-leave-the-resort kind of destination. Whatever you’re into — cool cities, crazy scenery, diving or surfing or hiking — Mexico has everything in spades. See below for suggestions on where to go.

Is Mexico Safe?

As soon as you announce that you’re planning a trip to Mexico, one of your parents or relatives or coworkers will say, “Don’t go to Mexico — it’s not safe.” And that may give you pause, especially if the person is someone you love or respect. But you need to consider the source first.

Considering the source is one of my top travel safety tips for women, and this is especially true for women traveling to Mexico. Most people have an opinion about Mexico, and if they’re not experienced in traveling the country, it’s likely a bad opinion informed by cable news.

Every time someone gives you advice about traveling to a destination, you should ask yourself the following questions:

• Does this person travel?
• Does this person travel in my style of traveling (i.e. backpacking as opposed to resort travel)?
• Has this person been to this destination?
• Has this person been to this destination recently (in the past 3-5 years)?

If the questions to all four questions is yes, then you’ve likely got a reliable source and should listen to him or her. If not, you should find someone who knows better.

And I’m someone who knows better. I’ve been teaching women how to travel the world safely for more than ten years now, and I’ve spent a lot of time in Mexico. I designed this guide to dispel myths and help women enjoy their trips to Mexico.

Here’s the most important part: CABLE NEWS DOES NOT GIVE YOU AN ACCURATE PICTURE OF WHAT IT’S LIKE TO TRAVEL IN MEXICO. Ever since 24-hour cable news debuted in the US, there has been a disproportional focus on horrors around the world, particularly in Mexico and the Middle East. And that goes triple for Fox News, a channel that frequently and blatantly lies to the public for the purpose of consolidating money and power, then avoids lawsuits because they’re branded as “entertainment,” not news.

Reporting exclusively on horrors outside the US borders and never showing any of the good stuff does not show you anything about what it’s like to travel in Mexico. The good stuff dominates — but it doesn’t make for compelling news.

But aren’t there drug cartels in Mexico?

Yes, but as long as you’re not going to Mexico for the purpose of trafficking drugs, you are not going to be involved in that. How often do you waltz into drug deals in your home country? How often do you accidentally end up in a meth lab? How often do you get in the way of drugs being transported? Most drug cartels operate in areas nowhere near where tourists go.

You’re not Walter White. They don’t care about you.

But aren’t there caravans of immigrants?

That’s not an issue for you and not a safety issue for anyone. The goal of Central American migrants is to get to the United States safely, and that route happens to go through Mexico. You likely won’t see any migrants if you stick to the tourist trail, and your chance of seeing a caravan is nearly zero. If you do see one, they won’t be interested in you.

Migrants are vulnerable to theft and sexual assault; they are in far more danger than you are.

But most importantly, the reason why so many Central Americans are fleeing their countries in the first place is because America’s interventionist policies in Central America ended up leaving the region destabilized and dangerous.

Aren’t they rapists?

That’s a pretty racist thing to say. Rapists are everywhere, and nine times out of ten women are raped by men they already know. I guarantee you personally know a rapist who thinks he’s a “nice guy.”

But I heard about something bad that happened in Mexico. Is it safe?

I’m not saying that tragedies never happen to travelers in Mexico. They do happen — but they’re rare. Far rarer than the public would have you believe.

A woman will occasionally die while traveling in Mexico — from a car accident, from a drink spiking or poisoning, or from drowning — but these are extremely rare incidents. Just as they are rare in your home country. And being kidnapped by cartels is something that happens far more in movies than real life. (Also, if you google “woman dies in Mexico,” most of the results pertain to botched cosmetic surgeries.)

Keep in mind that Mexico is an enormous country. Just because something bad happens somewhere in Mexico, it doesn’t mean it will affect your trip. An appropriate analogy would be to say, “It’s dangerous to go to Philadelphia — there’s drug violence in East St. Louis!” Or “It’s dangerous to go to the Grand Canyon — I just heard about a shooting in Chicago!” Or “You shouldn’t go to Martha’s Vineyard — there was an earthquake in Los Angeles!”

See how ridiculous that sounds?

Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

Is Mexico good for first-time solo female travelers?

It depends on your travel experience and your plans for your trip. I think that for some women, Mexico would be a great first-time travel destination.

If all you’re doing on your Mexico trip is staying at a beach resort or hotel and doing day trips, then yes, Mexico is a very easy trip for first-time solo travelers. If you’re already an experienced traveler, you just haven’t traveled solo yet, Mexico could be a great option for you. And if you speak Spanish, life will be much easier for you.

If you’re planning a Mexico trip where you’re traveling independently by bus and visiting several different cities, that’s more of a challenging trip. Even more so if you don’t speak Spanish or you haven’t done much travel yet.

If you haven’t done a lot of travel before, and especially if you’ve spent all your time in small towns and haven’t experienced cities much, Mexico might be a bit too much, too fast. You may want to start traveling somewhere easier like England or Scotland , or you might want to join a group tour in Mexico.

Group Tours in Mexico

If you’re not quite ready to travel completely solo in Mexico, you can always join a group tour as a solo traveler! G Adventures , a company I’ve traveled with and recommend, has fun adventurous tours around the world, including Mexico tours . I like G because they are very solo traveler-friendly, they keep their groups small, and they are sustainability-minded.

Here are some of their most popular Mexico tours:

• Classic Mexico Adventure (14 days, Mexico City to Playa del Carmen): The best of Mexico in two weeks, with cities, ruins, culinary hotspots, ending at the beach.
• Mayan Highlights (9 days, from Playa del Carmen): A tropical lagoon, a great city, epic ruins, all in nine days.
• Day of the Dead in Oaxaca (7 days, from Oaxaca): A week of exploring artsy Oaxaca and celebrating Day of the Day like the locals do.
• Mayan Trail (11 days, Playa del Carmen to Antigua, Guatemala): The best of the Yucatan and Chiapas, finishing over the border in Guatemala.
• See more of their Mexico tours here.

Is Mexico good for experienced solo female travelers?

Hell yes! Mexico is an excellent choice for experienced solo female travelers. A lot of people don’t realize just how diverse and rich of a destination Mexico is. If you want to go city-hopping, go ahead. If you want to go ruin-hopping, go ahead. If you want to explore jungles and swim in cenotes or camp in the desert or even go winery-hopping (!), you can do it in Mexico.

My big tip for experienced solo female travelers is to avoid the biggest tourist spots — namely, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the Mayan Riviera that extends through that region. Sure, this is a fun place to visit, but it’s extremely touristy, and the crowds can be insane, especially during high season (December to March).

I would. Oh, and a tip — Tulum gets all the publicity, particularly from the bohemian/stylish travel contingent, but it’s past its prime now. Bacalar has that wonderful quality Tulum used to have; the island of Holbox does, too.

What You ACTUALLY Have to Worry About in Mexico: Water Safety and Noise

The water in Mexico is not safe to drink.  If you’re not used to Mexican water, drinking it can lead to illness. There are two ways around this: drink bottled or sterilized water, or sterilize it yourself.

While most travelers in Mexico rely on bottled water, it creates a major waste issue. For this reason, I recommend you bring a reusable bottle  and invest in a SteriPen water purifier (much better and faster than tablets). Alternatively, you can bring a LifeStraw , a bottle that purifies water as you drink it through its straw. I love my LifeStraw.

If you stay in hotels, guesthouses, or apartment rentals in Mexico, it’s common for them to provide you with drinking water. If it’s unclear, just ask!

Noise is more of a convenience thing than a safety issue. Mexico is loud . Church services blare music into the night. Firecrackers explode with regularity. Trucks drive down the streets with loudspeakers blasting advertisements. And bus rides always have movies playing at top volume. If you’re not prepared, the noise of Mexico can drive you insane.

For this reason, I recommend you bring earplugs , and you may want to consider investing in heavy-duty earplugs . If you’re planning on working while in Mexico, you may be interested in noise-canceling headphones .

Travel Safety Tips for Mexico

Dress to blend in with Mexican women.  Your goal is not to “pass” as Mexican — it’s to look like you’re a longtime resident, not a tourist. Dressing similarly to locals helps immensely with this. Mexican women, like many Latin American women, tend to wear long pants but don’t have qualms about showing more skin up top.

It’s good to dress a bit more conservatively than usual, especially in traditional areas. If you’re visiting a church or religious site, cover to your shoulders and knees. You have more leeway in resort areas. Only wear swimwear at the beach.

When I’m in Mexico, I usually wear long dresses or skirts or jeans with tank tops. Sometimes knee-length dresses, but never anything super short, and never shorts.

The Walking Company  is my go-to for comfortable shoes that are cute; I strongly recommend black ABEO flats , which have fantastic arch support.

Consider bringing a Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf .  These beautiful scarves have a hidden passport pocket in them. I love these scarves ( I even designed my own! ) and they are so good at keeping your valuables hidden. They’re also extremely chic and they come in different fabrics for all kinds of climates.

Get a SIM card. If your phone plan doesn’t work overseas (don’t roam, it’s crazy expensive), pick up a SIM card in the airport or in a shop on the street. This way you’ll always have internet on your phone in case of an emergency. I usually get a Telcel SIM card when I’m in Mexico.

Keep your drinks close to you. Don’t take drinks from strangers and don’t leave them out when you’re drinking them. Watch your drink like a hawk.

Don’t drink too much.  Know your limits, and drink less than you usually do at home. Even when the margaritas are lovely! Be in a state where you’re aware of your surroundings.

Use reef safe sunscreen, even if you’re not swimming near a reef. Other kinds of sunscreen can be damaging to cenotes and lakes like Bacalar. Stream2Sea is a good reef safe sunscreen.

Peel your fruits and vegetables. If you’re going to eat raw fruits or vegetables, make sure they’re peeled.

Lock up your valuables in a portable safe in your hotel room. I do this with my Pacsafe Travelsafe and I consider it the most important thing I pack .

How to Protect Your Belongings on the Beach

Malaria is present in parts of Mexico. This is the Mexico malaria map from the Center for Disease Control in the US. Some travelers choose to take malaria pills and some choose not to. I’m not going to tell you what to do because that’s a conversation you and a medical professional should have. I recommend seeing a travel doctor.

The zika virus is also present in Mexico. Here is a map. Zika should be a concern of pregnant women, partners of pregnant women, and women who intend to become pregnant soon, but if you’re none of those things, you don’t need to worry. Some destinations in Mexico, like Mexico City, are at a high enough altitude that mosquitos are not present and zika is not a factor. Again, this is a conversation to have with your doctor.

Climates vary enormously in Mexico. It’s not all hot and tropical. I’ve had friends plan trips to cities like Mexico City and Guanajuato in winter, and they ended up freezing their buns off and buying a new wardrobe because they thought it would be summer weather like in Cancún. Do your research before you arrive.

Do not take drugs, even if you’re a party drug enthusiast.  First, drugs in Mexico can be cut with poisonous substances. Second, if you’re caught, the police are not forgiving. If you’re into drugs, do it at home, not in Mexico.

Don’t be afraid of street food. Street food is life in Mexico, especially when it comes to tacos! Go where the crowds are; if there’s a line, it means the food is great and there’s high turnover. You may want to start with vegetarian food and slowly ease yourself into meat. Just don’t get tacos cheaper than 10 pesos each.

Hide your money in multiple places. Only take a small amount of cash and a debit card with you when going out. Keep the rest locked up in your room. Make sure you bring multiple debit cards, too, in case one gets lost or stolen.

Get an extra debit card. You should have two debit cards to two different bank accounts. If you only have one, I recommend you get a debit card from Transferwise . Keep a few hundred dollars in your account, hide the card deep in your luggage, and use it if your primary debit card is stolen.

Protect yourself from the sun and heat. Bring sunscreen and a hat. Hydrate constantly. Water is ideal, but coconuts are great for the electrolytes! Don’t forget your  reusable bottle  and  SteriPen  so you can drink the local water safely.

Finally, invest in a guidebook. Even as an expert traveler in the year 2019, I love guidebooks. They’re filled with detailed information about everything from travel times between cities to medical clinics serving foreigners. I’m a Lonely Planet fan and I recommend Lonely Planet’s Mexico guidebook . I buy the digital version and store the PDF on iBooks on my phone. You can either buy the whole thing or individual chapters, which is great if you’re only visiting a small part of the country.

Know Before You Go:

The Best Experiences in Mexico

Mexico is full of interesting experiences. I could spend years in Mexico just trying to do everything. Here is just a sampler of things you can do:

Go cenote-hopping. The Yucatan is home to a high concentration of cenotes, natural freshwater sinkholes. The Mayans thought they were the gateway to the underworld. They are incredible places to go for a swim.

Read More: 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Have a world-class meal for a low price. Pujol and Quintonil in Mexico City are regularly ranked one of the top ten restaurants on the planet and while the tasting menu is pricey, you will pay far less than you would for a restaurant of that caliber in New York, Paris or Tokyo.

Learn to surf. If you’ve ever dreamed of hanging ten, Mexico’s west coast is a great place to learn. I took a lesson in Punta de Mita and you might enjoy Sayulita, Puerto Escondido, or Cerritos.

Catch a Lucha Libre match. This tradition, Mexican pro wrestling, is a fun and wacky night out! It’s all fake but it’s got so much drama. And the masks are fun.

Shop in markets. From tiny markets in small towns to behemoths in major cities, Mexican markets are an adventure. Here you can find some of the best cheap dishes in town, as well as cheap clothing, fresh fruit, electronics, and all kinds of souvenirs.

Taste mezcal or tequila in their homeland. Tequila is more than a shot when you want to party; mezcal is more than smoky tequila. Learn their nuances and sample the high-end stuff.

Get into Mexican nightlife. I love partying in Latin America more than any other region in the world, and Mexico is no exception — the music is joyful, the dancing is contagious, and the people are so welcoming. There is none of that pretentious club atmosphere you often get in the US.

Explore Mayan Ruins. Mexico is home to some of the best Mayan pyramids in the world. If you’re in the Yucatán, check out the Chichen Itza, pictured above. If you’re going to Mexico City, save an afternoon for Tehotihuacan. And if you’re traveling between San Cristóbal de las Casas and the Yucatán, be sure to check out Palenque.

Get up close and personal with whales. Baja California is renowned for its whale watching, and on the island of Holbox on the east coast, you can go swimming with tiger sharks!

Celebrate Dia de los Muertos.  From October 31 to November 2, Mexicans honor their departed relatives by spending the days with them at cemeteries, creating offerings for them. While the Day of the Dead is celebrated throughout the country, the best place to celebrate is the city of Oaxaca. The cities put on public celebrations, but keep in mind many Mexicans celebrate quietly and privately.

Get dive certified, or snorkel like crazy.  Cozumel is the best diving destination in Mexico, and it’s covered with gorgeous reefs. I really enjoyed snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal. If you’re diving or snorkeling near reefs or in cenotes or lakes, be sure to wear reef-safe sunscreen .

Learn to love mariachi. Mariachi bands are too often painted as a punchline in the States, but it is a gorgeous musical tradition. One of my favorite experiences in Mexico was randomly wandering into a karaoke bar and listening to everyone perform traditional Mexican songs.

Read Mexican literature while on your trip. I recently read Laia Jufresa’s Umami while in Mexico, which takes place in Mexico City, and it is nothing short of sensational. A beautiful book, a gentle book, an easy-to-read book, and a book so gorgeously translated that you’ll be floored it was originally written in Spanish. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a recent bestseller and a spooky journey into mid-century Mexico.

Where to Go in Mexico

Ah, here’s my favorite part of the post to write. There are so many amazing places to travel in Mexico! I keep adding more and more to my list!

If I had to name my three favorite places in Mexico, they would be Bacalar, Oaxaca, and Mexico City.

If you want to experience the best of Mexico in a two-week trip, I recommend exploring the Yucatán. Either by road trip or by bus, you can visit a tiny island and two spectacular lakes (one pink, one seven shades of blue!); gorgeous cenotes; Mayan ruins; a yellow city; and one of the coolest cities in Mexico. I put together the perfect two-week itinerary here.

If you love beaches, Mexico is chock full of beauties. Many people head to Cancún and the surrounding beach towns of the Quintana Roo region — think Playa del Carmen, Tulum, the Riviera Maya, the Costa Maya. My favorite beach destination is the island of Holbox.  

Other great destinations are Baja California (think Los Cabos), the Riviera Nayarit (Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta are great), and the Oaxaca coast (check out Zipolite and Puerto Escondido).

And one of the best “beach destinations” in Quintana Roo is actually a lake! Bacalar is a lake of seven colors and it’s both a low-key destination and a stunning natural beauty. It’s positively magical.

If you love cities, Mexico City is nothing short of spectacular. It’s filled with art, culture, an amazing culinary scene, and hip neighborhoods, all for a very reasonable cost. Mexico City is nothing like you think it’s going to be. It’s layered and complicated and so green. I highly recommend staying in the La Condesa neighborhood.

One of Mexico’s most visually stunning cities is Guanajuato , a few hours from Mexico City. And I really love the smaller, low-key city of Mérida, the safest city in Mexico, home to Mayan culture and great restaurants. San Cristóbal de las Casas is a colorful gem in the middle of chilly Chiapas, and nearby Sumidero Canyon makes an adrenaline-filled day trip !

But perhaps the best medium-sized city to visit is Oaxaca. Oaxaca is home to Indigenous culture, outstanding cuisine, mezcal, and surrounded by stunning natural wonders. (Oaxaca is both the name of the city and the state.)

If you want to get off the beaten path in Mexico, you can definitely do that. One exciting trip further north is to Copper Canyon, where you can ride the train through some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. If you’re looking for an emerging city, check out Guadalajara and its excellent restaurants, bars, and breweries. The tequila fields of Tequila are a short drive away, too! And Campeche is a pint-sized colorful city between the Yucatan and Chiapas.

Why I Fell In Love with Isla Holbox, Mexico

Travel Insurance for Mexico

Travel insurance is vital for trips to Mexico — or any other country. If you get sick or injured on your trip, or even have to be flown home, travel insurance will help you in your time of need and protect you from financial ruin.

And it’s not just about injury. If you get robbed, travel insurance can refund you for what was stolen from you. If your flights are cancelled due to weather, travel insurance can refund you. And if you have an emergency and need to get home immediately, travel insurance will help you get home fast. 

I use and recommend World Nomads travel insurance for trips to Mexico.

Don’t be afraid — Mexico is waiting for you!

I have had so many wonderful experiences in Mexico, and I want you to have those experiences, too!  And trust me — once you’ve gotten into Mexico, it’s hard to tear yourself away. Even though I’ve been so many times, I keep planning trip after trip.

I know you’ve got people in your life who think you’re crazy for wanting to travel Mexico alone — but you’re going to do great. Consider this your blessing. Read up on travel safety , go to Mexico, and have the time of your life.

Then come back and tell me all about it!

Planning a Trip to Mexico:

• Solo Female Travel in Mexico: Is it Safe?
• What NOT to Do in Mexico

Places to Visit in the Yucatán and Mexico’s Caribbean Coast:

• Things to Do in Bacalar, Mexico, The Lake of Seven Colors
• Guide to Isla Holbox, Mexico’s Most Magical Island
• 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Places to Visit in Inland Mexico:

• The Absolute Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico
• Best Mexico City Neighborhoods to Stay In
• 35+ Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico
• How to Visit Sumidero Canyon from San Cristobal de las Casas

Places to Visit on Mexico’s Pacific Coast:

• 24 Fabulous Things to Do in Sayulita, Mexico
• Guide to Bucerías, Mexico, an alternative to Puerto Vallarta

Have you traveled solo to Mexico? Have any travel tips? Share away!

The Ultimate Backpacking Mexico Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: February 6, 2024

Wondering where to go in Mexico and need a Mexico Itinerary? In this post, I’m sharing with you my Mexico backpacking route and fun facts about Mexico backpacking. I’ve lived and traveled extensively in Mexico and although all of the information in this post is great for anyone traveling or backpacking in Mexico , it does contain a lot of information specifically for Solo female travel Mexico.

So, if you are planning a trip to Mexico here on my blog you are going to find everything you need to backpack Mexico .

Here are some epic Mexican quotes to get you excited about your trip.

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Getting Around Mexico

Traveling around Mexico is actually pretty easy. As there isn’t a cross-country train service the two options are, bus or plane . The buses in Mexico are pretty cheap, very reliable, and easy to use. But it is a large country and so the journeys can be long. If you are pushed for time I recommend making some of the longer journeys by plane rather than by bus. I’ve made recommendations below, but just take a look at the map above and you can see the distances.

To help you decide where to go in Mexico, on the 4 week Mexico Itinerary I’ve tried to add in some stops between places so you could quite easily do this whole route by bus if you wanted to. That said you might prefer the comfort of flying. Flights are generally reasonable, so long as you book in advance. 

I have extensive travel guides detailing the best ways to travel and fun facts about Mexico:

The Best Way To Get From Cancun Airport To Tulum

How to get from Cancun airport to Playa Del Carmen

How To Get From Playa del Carmen To Tulum

How To Get To Cozumel – Cancun To Cozumel

How to get from Tikal in Guatemala to Tulum in Mexico

How To Get To Isla Holbox Mexico

How to Get to Sayulita

Quick Tip : I highly recommend booking all of your Mexico transportation with GottoGo . You can search for buses, shuttles, ferries, and Flights on their website. What I love most about them is their customer service. I know these guys personally from my time living in Guatemala and they look after their customers. If anything happens and you get delayed and miss your bus, you can just call them and they are always there to help. If you book through them you will pay a little more than if you book in person at the bus station. But it’s worth it for the ease and security. Click here to search for transportation in Mexico.

The Best Backpack Route Mexico

Ok so here it is, what you have all been waiting for my Mexico travel route to help you figure out where to go in Mexico.

As most people fly into Mexico City I’m going to start there. But you could also do this in reverse and fly into Cancun airport. Likewise, if you are traveling overland you can either cross the border from Belize up to Chetumal in Mexico. If you do this then I’d start in Bacalar and then work your way around Yucatan before flying from Cancun to Chiapas, then continue the route from there. Or if you cross the border from Guatemala then you will arrive at San Cristobal de las Casas first. From there you can pick up the route and go either way. 

• Mexico City (CDMX)
• Guadalajara
• Sayulita / Nuevo Vallarta / Riviera Nayarit
• Puerto Vallarta
• San Cristobal de las Casas
• Chichen Itza
• Isla Holbox
• Playa del Carmen
• Isla Mujeres

Yes, there are areas I’ve skipped, but you can easily add them to your Mexico backpacking itinerary if you have more time. For some recommendations of the best places to visit in Mexico check out this blog post . The same goes for removing things if you have less time. This Mexico backpacking route is suitable for solo female travelers , I’m not advising you to go anywhere unsafe.

This Mexico travel route starts in Mexico City and ends in Cancun and I have it marked in on the map above in this direction. In this, I have included the best tourist places in Mexico as well as some Mexico points of interest that you should try and visit if you can. Of course, it goes without saying that there are many incredible places to visit that aren’t considered tourist destinations in Mexico. So if at all possible try and leave some time in your schedule to get off the beaten track a little and explore some new places.

Quick Tip:  Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.  Best Mexico Tours :  Click here to check out the top Mexico tours Best Mexico Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in Mexico Best Mexico Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Mexico

Mexico Adventure Travel Musts

If you are looking for some adventure highlights in Mexico there are a few things you should think about doing. One of my favorite fun facts about Mexico that surprises people is the country is fantastic for Scuba Diving . There are so many incredible diving adventures to have in Mexico that I wrote a whole blog post about them that you can read here . 

Another must-do while backpacking in Mexico is exploring some of the ancient ruins. Everyone knows about the world wonder that is Chichen Itza . But the Riviera Maya is teeming with ruins. You have Tulum , Coba , Ek Balam , and some off-the-beaten-track ruins . Then you also have Aztec ruins just outside of Mexico City Teotihuacan to be explored. Check out this hot air balloon tour over Teotihuacan . You can even check out the Calakmul Ruins hidden deep in the jungle too.

Some other Mexico highlights include:

• Taking a cooking class or doing a food tour
• Swimming with Whale sharks
• Diving with Bull Sharks
• Swimming in Cenotes
• Go to a yoga retreat
• Visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere  

QUICK TIP: Book your tours, rental cars, and transfers through my local contacts I’ve been working with Living Dreams Mexico for years and they are who I send all my family and friends to when they visit the Riviera Maya. I really can recommend them enough for private tours and experiences. They have solid 5* reviews on Trip Advisor and Google from almost 4000 reviewers! You can view all their tours here. If you’re looking for private airport transfers and rental cars then Vanessa and Oliver from Turismo Channel are personal friends of mine and I can 100% recommend them to make an inquiry click here and complete the form . Someone will be in touch within 24 hours.

Where To Go In Mexico | Mexico Trip Itineraries

It’s really hard to give you a one-size-fits-all best places to visit in Mexico travel itinerary , but I’m going to try. Of course, the more time you have the more places you can explore. My advice would be if you have more time to stop off at some of the smaller pueblos in between the main ‘tourist’ cities and pueblos. Less is more in Mexico so don’t try and cram in too much. Instead, take your time to get to know a place by staying a little longer.

On this where to go in Mexico trip itinerary, I’ve included the most popular places people visit and linked to more detailed helpful guides if I have them. This is not only a backpack route Mexico but will also suit other types of travelers too as it includes all of the main tourist attractions you will not want to miss while in Mexico. PS read these travel tips for Mexico before you plan anything.

Recommended Mexican Tour Companies These are companies I 100% recommend booking activities within Mexico.   Where Sidewalks End – One of my favorite Mexican based. companies offering boutique travel experiences you won’t find anywhere else.  Turismo Channel – If you are traveling to Playa del Carmen then I recommend booking through my friend Vanessa at Turismo Channel. You can check out their tours by  clicking here  and us code  claire10off  for 10% off group toursYou can also  send her a WhatsApp message  quoting the code to receive the discount.

One Month in Mexico

If you have one month in Mexico, this is the route I would recommend you take time to see as much of Mexico as you can.

Mexico itinerary for 1 month:

Mexico City (3 nights) – 3 nights is the minimum I would personally recommend staying in Mexico City. If you can spare an extra day, then stay for 4. I wrote a full accommodation guide to help you decide where to stay in Mexico City. But wherever you stay, I use Uber to get pretty much everywhere as it is so cheap. Things I’d recommend are visiting Tenochtitlán and going to the Lucha Libre wrestling ! If you want, you can also figure out how to visit Las Grutas de Tolantango from here too!

Guanajuato (1 night) – From Mexico City take a bus to Guanajuato which is about a 6-hour bus ride, or a short flight away. Here you can enjoy the colonial architecture and soak up your first taste of a Mexican pueblo. To make the most of your time here I’d recommend doing this tour from Guanajuato City to San Miguel de Allende .

Guadalajara (1 night) – Take another flight or the bus is just over 3 hours to Guadalajara . I’d suggest exploring Guadalajara and then head down to Lake Chapala , this can also be done as a day trip easily if you don’t want to move around so much. T equila is also a short day trip if you have time. You can take the Tequila express train from Guadalajara and back in a day. 

Chapala (1 night) – From Guadalajara , you can easily take a bus, or rent a car and drive to Lake Chapala. Spend at least 1 day here, more if you can as there are other places around the lake to explore. I love neighboring Ajijic oh and try to visit the Thermal Spa. If you spend the night in Chapala I highly recommend staying in Villa 1927 Arthotel Boutique right on the lake.

Puerto Vallarta (2 nights) – Time to hit the beach! The flight here from Guadalajara / Chapala is 50 minutes and the bus is just under 6 hours, so it’s all going to depend on time. Puerto Vallarta is a popular Mexican coastal town, but not as ‘gringoed’ as the Riviera Maya . It’s also a super nice drive if you want to rent a car . If you drive on the northern road you can hit up Sayulita and anywhere else in Nayarit first. Or if you go on the southern road then go to PV first and head to Nayarit after.

Sayulita : From Puerto Vallarta, if you have time I would also strongly recommend paying a visit to Sayulita. You can read all about how to get to Sayulita here . There are so many things to do in Sayulita you can easily stay here a few days or weeks if you have the time. Number 1 thing to do of course is surfing ! Wondering where to stay in Sayulita , don’t there are many amazing properties, you will be spoilt for choice! You can book a surf trip in Mexico with Thermal

Oaxaca (2 nights) – You are going to need to fly this leg of the journey unless you don’t mind a 20-hour bus ride! But you can’t skip Oaxaca. If for nothing else, this is where you are going to be eating some of the best Mexican food . Plus Oaxaca city is beautiful and full of brightly colored colonial buildings. If you have some more time then head to the beach town of Puerto Escondido for some chilled beach and surf town. I’d strongly recommend trying to fit in at least 2 nights here if you can!

Veracruz (2 nights) – To get here by bus it’s likely to take 6 hours, or you can fly but as there are no direct flights it will take you just as long. Like most places on this list, you are going to want more than 2 days here, but if it’s all you have then it will do. In Veracruz, you will find mountains, volcanoes, Magic Towns , rivers, the ocean , forests, amazing waterfalls , archeological sites , and a lot of good seafood! I have so many friends from here and all they talk about is how amazing the food is!

San Cristobal de las Casas (2 nights) –  Oh how I love San Cris if it didn’t get so cold here during the winter and there was a beach close I’d move there in a flash! Ok so to travel here by bus from Veracruz will take about 8 hours. So if you need to save time then skip Veracruz and just come directly from Oaxaca. But whatever you do, don’t skip San Cris. There is a lot to do here and you could easily spend a week or more here hiking, chasing waterfalls , and shopping for textiles and precious gems at rock bottom prices. 

Palenque (1 night) –  I’ve added in a stop at Palenque to break up the long-ass bus journey from San Cris to Campeche (if you want to take the bus. If you are planning on flying, then just fly direct from Tuxtla airport (just outside San Cris) to Merida and skip Palenque and Campeche. If however, you are interested in learning more about Mayan Culture then I recommend visiting Palenque. It’s about a 7-hour bus ride, or you can fly direct on a small plane here. 

Campeche (1 night) – The bus ride from Palenque to Campeche takes just under 6 hours on a direct bus. Campeche is often forgotten about by visitors to Yucatan. Most people skip over it in favor of Merida. But if you can I’d recommend stopping here for at least a night. UNESCO named it as a model of a colonial baroque city planning. Not only is it a World Heritage Site because of its beautiful colonial architecture, but it also has 17 archaeological sites including Calakmul, which is the largest Mayan city that has been discovered.

If you like this Ultimate Mexico backpacking itinerary and fun facts about Mexico backpacking, save it in your  Stipple trip planner  where you will find destinations, things to do, and accommodation all in one place without juggling between several apps.

Merida (2 nights) – Merida is the capital of Yucatan and it is brimming with culture! It can get very hot in the summer months, so be sure to book accommodations with AC if you can. As well as exploring the city from here you can easily access Chichen Itza . So you could save time by skipping Valladolid and spending a night at Chichen Itza and just see Chichen as a day tour. Then you can head directly to Holbox , or to Playa del Carmen by bus.

Chichen Itza (1 night) – If you have the time I recommend spending the night at Chichen Itza to see the light show ! Then get up early the next morning and explore during the daylight before all of the tour buses turn up! Or if you really want to save time then you can fly to Chichen Itza with Fly Cozumel.

Valladolid (1 night) – This is a place you can skip if you need to make up time. But it’s a nice little pueblo that can help to break up the journey if you have time. Buses run directly here from Merida, and Colectivos run from Chichen Itza . Both are frequent and the journey is short. 

Isla Holbox (2 nights) – To get to Holbox from Merida or Valladolid is a direct bus to Chiquila and from there you will need to take a boat out to the Island. Click here for a full breakdown of how to get to Isla Holbox . Holbox is where I go on vacation. If I need a weekend away from work and need to go somewhere I can completely relax and get offline, I come to Holbox . Be warned you will not get hardly any signal here, and wifi is inconsistent at best. But it’s about as close to paradise as you can get. Want to do some activities while on the island? Take a read of my guide to Holbox here .

Playa del Carmen (2 nights) – Yes, I know I may be biased as I lived here for a few years. But once you arrive in the Riviera Maya, Playa really is the best place to base yourself. It’s cheaper and easier to navigate than Tulum and Cancun and you can walk pretty much everywhere. Plus it’s easy to take colectivos to Cancun , Puerto Morelos , Tulum , and even to Bacalar (although I’d recommend taking the bus). Plus it’s just a short ferry ride to Cozumel .  You can take a bus or colectivo direct from Chiquila to get here. There is so much to see and do 2 days can easily become 2 months… or in my case 3 years haha.

Tulum (1 night) – One night is enough to check out Tulum. Arrive early and visit the Tulum ruins then spend the rest of the day exploring Tulum , or just chill on the beach. If you can spare a few extra days head to Coba ruins and go diving in some Cenotes . If you have time I’d also highly recommend trying to do a tour of Sian Ka’an . It’s not cheap but so worth it! You can either take an ADO bus here from Playa or hop in a colectivo .

Bacalar (2 nights) – It’s going to take you the best part of a day to get here from Tulum , but it will be worth it for the view. Bacalar is beautiful and here you can chill for a couple of nights and reflect on the amazing time you have had exploring Mexico! You can take an ADO bus from Tulum , or a colectivo. Personally, I’d choose the bus for comfort unless you are on a very tight budget. 

Cancun / Isla Mujeres (1 night) – Time to start making your way back to the airport! It will take you most of the day to get from Bacalar to Cancun . You can either stay at a hotel close to the airport or if you have more time skip Cancun and stay in Isla Mujeres… This won’t work if you have a morning flight. but if you have an afternoon or evening flight I’d recommend it so you can check out one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!

Three Weeks in Mexico

Only have three weeks in Mexico? No problem. You won’t be able to see the whole of Mexico during this time, but with this itinerary, you can make the most of your 3 weeks in Mexico.

Mexico itinerary for 3 weeks

• Mexico City (3 nights)
• Guanajuato / Guadalajara/ Tequila (2 nights)
• Puebla (2 nights)
• Oaxaca (2 nights)
• San Cristobal de las Casas (2 nights)
• Merida (1 night)
• Valladolid / Chichen Itza (1 night)
• Holbox (2 nights)
• Tulum (1 night)
• Bacalar (2 nights)
• Playa del Carmen / Cozumel (3 nights)

Two Weeks in Mexico

Got two weeks in Mexico? Then use this Mexico itinerary to help you make the most of your short vacation. I’m not going to lie, 2 weeks in Mexico is nowhere near enough time, but you can see a few of the most popular places and get a feel of the Country. You will need to fly between some places if you want to make the most of your time. But in some places, you can catch a bus and it won’t take longer than half a day.

Mexico two week itinerary:

• Merida (2 nights)
• The Riviera Maya (3 nights)

Two Weeks in Yucatan

I’ve created this 2-week road trip itinerary for Yucatan as in reality 2 weeks in Mexico just isn’t a lot of time. Personally, I’d visit half as many places as I’ve added to this list. But if you do only have 2 weeks and want to fit in as much as you can, then this is what I would recommend doing. 

Yucatan 2 week itinerary:

• Holbox (3 nights)
•   Merida (1 night) 
• Campeche (1 night)
• Valladolid (2 nights) to visit Chichen Itza
• Bacalar (2 nights) – or 1 night in Mahuale and 1 in Bacalar
• Playa del Carmen (3 nights) or 2 nights and one night in Cozumel to go diving. Make sure you rent a car in Cozumel and do a lap of the Island!

A week in Mexico

1 week in Mexico is really not enough time. But if it’s all the time you have, then it’s all the time you have. You can make the most of your time by flying from place to place, otherwise, you will be wasting 3 days on a bus. I’d strongly recommend only packing hand luggage as the budget Mexican airlines like to charge a lot of money for baggage ! 

See my Ultimate Mexico packing list on Amazon !

Although you could easily spend 7 days in any one of these places If you want to cover as much ground as possible in your 7 days in Mexico then with this you will be able to visit 3 very different places in Mexico to give you a real feel for just how diverse and wonderful a country Mexico really is.

Backpack Mexico itinerary for 1 week:

• Mexico City (2 nights)
• Riviera Maya (2 nights)

On this Mexican itinerary, you will fly into Mexico City and then fly out of Cancun . If you are backpacking and coming up from Guatemala then I recommend taking a bus from Guatemala to San Cristobal and then heading to Oaxaca for a night or 2 before traveling to Cancun . 

I’ve not specified where you should visit in the Riviera Maya, because that really is up to you. Personally, I would choose Playa del Carmen and Tulum over Cancun . But then there is also Holbox , Isla Mujeres, and Cozumel to choose from. If you want to explore, choose Playa del Carmen as it’s pretty central. If you just want to crash on a beach for a few days, choose Holbox or Isla Mujeres.

The Best Hostels in Mexico

I’ve listed all of the best hostels in Mexico here on this page . However, I do also have more detailed accommodation guides for Mexico City , Cancun , Playa del Carmen , Cozumel , Holbox , and Tulum .

Other Important Things to Consider When Backpacking in Mexico

There are some other common questions people ask about when traveling to Mexico so I’ve tried to answer them as best I can here.

If you are wondering what to pack I have some great packing guides you can read:

The Ultimate Packing List For Mexico

Other than that there isn’t much you really need. Most countries can enter Mexico on a tourist ‘visa’ which is good for 180 days. After 180 days, you will need to leave the country. If you want to return you will need to stay away for at least 3 days before re-entering. If you enter overland then make sure you tell them you will be in Mexico for longer than a week and make sure you pay the fee for the full 1890 day visa. If you don’t they will only give you 7 days to transit. If you fly into Mexico the cost is covered as part of your ticket, so you don’t need to worry.

Quick Tip : View my full Mexico packing guide here including a downloadable checklist. And check out my Mexico Essentials shopping list here .

Mexico Travel Guide Planning

🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for Mexico?

Yes! I have created a whole packing guide to Mexico which you can read here and you can also check out my packing list for Mexico on Amazon here .

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in Mexico?

I strongly recommend using GottoGo . You can book almost all transport in the major Mexican tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫 Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in Mexico?

First and foremost check out all of the amazing Mexico tours Where Sidewalks End has. They are a small local company and they have some really special experiences.

For everything else I recommend either Viator  or GetYour Guide . 

If you are traveling to Cancun you can use GoCity and save up to 55% of the initial cost of entrance tickets to various museums, tours, and attractions!

If you are traveling to Playa del Carmen then I recommend booking through my friend Vanessa at Turismo Channel. You can check out their tours by clicking here and using the following discount codes for the best prices clairecaroff (car rental), claire10off (for 10% off group tours), claireprivate (for a discount on private tours). You can also send her a WhatsApp message quoting the above codes to receive the discount.

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using Heymondo for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out SafetyWing  digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise Skyscanner or Expedia are my go-to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read here . I personally use GlocalMe  as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub or Alosim . Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are Booking.com , Hotels.com , and Expedia  They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅 Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list here . I’m currently traveling with this suitcase and this backpack. 

Solo Female Travel Mexico

Looking for solo travel Mexico information? I personally traveled to Mexico solo and had no issues at all. I’m not denying that there are some safety issues you need to take seriously, however, if you are planning a trip to Mexico alone I have a few guides you can read that will help you get prepared.

Is it safe to travel to Mexico alone? Absolutely! Do you need to be prepared? YES

Fun Facts About Mexico Backpacking: Final Thoughts

And that’s it! My where to go in Mexico ultimate Mexico backpacking route! I hope it has been of use to you as you prepare for backpacking in Mexico. Feel free to reach out if you have any specific questions that I don’t answer on this Mexico blog!

Tuesday 29th of March 2022

Thank you so much for the extremely insightful article! I do have question, would you recommend pre-booking all buses? :)

Moon Palace

Thursday 1st of July 2021

Mexico is wonderful, has a lot to know and gives a great cultural experience to the visitor who dares to travel alone. Besides, Mexicans are very kind and friendly people wherever you go and they will make you feel as if you were in your own country.

Claire Summers

Hi I’m Claire!

At 34 I sold all my worldly possessions that wouldn’t fit into 3 boxes or my backpack and hit the road.

I started Claire’s Itchy Feet to inspire women to pack their bags and travel more. With no plans to stop anytime soon I’m always looking for my next adventure be it attempting to surf or climbing a volcano I’ll try (almost) anything once!

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

Solo travel in Mexico - is Mexico safe for solo female travelers?

Discover everything you need to know about solo travel in Mexico including the best places in Mexico to travel alone as well as expert Mexico travel advice.

If you are dreaming of escaping on a grand adventure, Mexico is a great destination to choose from. It is rich in culture, boasts amazing cuisine, and is relatively close to major US airports. Solo travel in Mexico offers the freedom to explore and discover everything this country has to offer without being bound to rigid tour schedules or other people’s routines. Solo travel is an incredible, immersive travel experience and more so in Mexico where you have luscious tropical forests, sunkissed white sand beaches, and breathtaking mountain scenery at your fingertips. Of course, solo travel is always more daunting than traveling with friends or family, so, we put together the best destinations to enjoy alone in Mexico . Are you ready to venture off the beaten track and enjoy the magic of Mexico ?

Female solo travel in Mexico

Traveling alone is a great soul-searching exercise that offers bountiful rewards in the form of new friends, unforgettable experiences, and everlasting memories. Solo travel is experiencing a boom and it is estimated that more females are traveling alone than their male counterparts. Solo female travel in Mexico is not to be missed. Not only does Mexico provide both the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines to enjoy, but it also offers breathtaking ancient ruins that tell stories of both the Aztecs and the Mayans in addition to the brightly colored traditions that are also celebrated across towns and cities. But, that’s not all, anyone interested in participating in Mexico solo female travel will be met with:

• Lush tropical forests full of exotic wildlife
• A world-class offering of museums, bars, and must-visit restaurants
• Delicious, mouth-watering cuisine served on every street corner
• An abundance of activities to enjoy such as diving, hiking, or even learning Spanish
• Great transport connections across the country

Solo Traveller's Mexico Travel Advice

When partaking in solo travel in Mexico, it is always worth brushing up on some key phrases in Mexican Spanish. Not only will it help to orientate you once you land but locals will love the fact that you are making an effort to integrate. Apart from learning the lingo, it is also worth creating a rough itinerary since Mexico is a huge country with lots of land to explore. Make the most of your trip by pinpointing exactly which unmissable highlights to visit and plan your travel around those. Our solo traveler’s guide to Mexico will help to lead you to the best places for your personality. Beach lovers will fall in love with Ixtapa and its bohemian coastal vibe while fans of the city shouldn’t miss out on the dizzying highs of Mexico City and Querétaro.

Planning a solo trip to Mexico - Riviera Maya

If you are enjoying solo travel in Mexico for the first time, then the Riviera Maya is the perfect destination to explore. A hotspot for foreign tourists, this picture-postcard corner of Mexico is filled with the mystical ruins of Mayan civilization, luxury hotels , and some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Tulum solo travel is a popular option for those wanting to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty of this boho paradise. Tulum offers a hippy alternative to the built-up neighboring towns surrounding it. This idyllic enclave offers relative safety and an accessible base from which to explore the sacred town of Chichen-Itza . On a solo trip to Tulum , enjoy scuba diving in the coral reef or venture into the wilderness of Xcaret in the neighboring town of Playa del Carmen for a wildlife-fuelled adventure into the jungle.

Travelling alone in Mexico - Cancun

Planning a solo trip to Cancun is the ultimate recipe for a relaxing, luxurious getaway . Once upon a time, this white sand paradise was a small fishing village, but, with the arrival of mass tourism, this corner of Mexico has become the must-visit tourist destination , attracting visitors from across the globe in hordes. Cancun solo travel , especially Cancun solo female travel is perhaps the easiest of all solo travel adventures you could embark upon in Mexico. Thanks to the well-established infrastructure of this city, it is easy to navigate on foot, allowing you to go from the beach to the local flea markets without the stress of navigating local transit. Solo travel in Mexico doesn’t mean you need to miss out on all the fun of a night out on the town. Cancun is famous for its hectic nightlife which illuminates the city once the sun goes down and, for those who are avid golf fans, Cancun boasts 15 golf courses to enjoy.

Solo travelling Mexico - Mexico City

Traveling to Mexico City alone as a woman doesn’t need to be a daunting experience. This city is a world of its own, bursting with an eclectic cultural scene full of music, art, and unique experiences. While staying in Mexico City retrace the steps of Mexico’s great artists such as Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera with a trip to Coyoacán and the ‘La Casa Azul’, Kahlo’s home where she lived and painted many of her great works. Soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere of this Aztec city with a stroll down the Avenida de la Reforma, the city’s most famous street, where many concerts and cultural events have taken place and where it is possible to see a mix of the different styles of architecture that make up this iconic capital city. For those searching for more adventure on their solo travel in Mexico, venture from Mexico City to Puebla, Oaxaca or even to the resort of Ixtapa to further enjoy the spirit of Mexico.

Querétaro - Mexico solo travel itinerary

Querétaro is a real sensory delight and one of the best places in Mexico to travel alone . Located just 200km from Mexico City, Querétero offers a picturesque place to stay with a glimpse into the pre-Colombian era of Mexico. Cobbled pathways, decadent churches, and elaborate fountains decorate each corner of this cosmopolitan city. Anyone planning a Mexico solo travel itinerary should consider beginning their trip in Querétero to witness the magnificent 18th-century aqueduct, the El Cerrito pyramid, and soak up some authentic Mexican city life. Since Querétero is a major business hub, the city strikes the ideal balance between old and new and it is certainly one for wine lovers to visit while enjoying solo travel in Mexico since it is Mexico’s second-largest wine region.

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Why Solo Female Travel In Mexico Isn’t As Crazy As It Sounds

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on March 20, 2017 |

“You’re going on your own?? Are you crazy?” When I announced that I would be taking my first ever solo trip this year, my friends and family were concerned. When I told them it would be to Mexico, they were downright alarmed. But the funny thing is, only people who have never been here think solo female travel in Mexico is unsafe.

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Safest Places To Visit In Mexico

Mexico City

I had no idea I would love Mexico City as much as I did.  I planned to spend four days here and ended up staying for over two weeks.  My favourite neighbourhoods are Roma Norte, La Condesa, and Polanco.  They’re all full of gorgeous stores, restaurants, parks, and cafes and have beautiful tree lined streets.  San Angel, Zona Rosa, Coyoácan, and Juarez are also all great areas to check out if you have a bit longer in the city.

Isla Mujeres

A gorgeous little island just north of Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a great spot to get away from the tourist insanity of Cancun and Playa del Carmen (my opinion is to skip both!). It’s still not exactly a hidden gem, but the beaches are beautiful and the island has a very laid back vibe. For a similar island paradise vibe with fewer tourists, try Isla Holbox.

San Miguel de Allende

Puerto Escondido

But Won’t I Be Lonely If I Travel Mexico Alone?

Want to make new friends on the road and find out about all the best events at your hostels? Check out the video below:

Safest Transport For Solo Females In Mexico 

You can find amazing deals on domestic flights in Mexico, and in some cases my flights were actually cheaper than getting the bus. Mexico is a pretty massive country, so flights can also help you to cut down on a ton of travel time (and less travel time = more beach time!). Viva Aerobus and Volaris are two great airline options.

Another awesome way for women to travel around Mexico alone. Buses in Mexico are seriously deluxe with really comfortable seats, tons of leg room, AC, and snacks included.  Prices are also very reasonable and services run frequently.  ADO and ETN are the most popular bus companies.

Collectivos / Taxis / Uber

For shorter distances, collectivos (aka mini-buses) and taxis are a great option. Taxis are much more expensive than collectivos, but they are still a lot cheaper than you’d get in the UK, Canada, or the US. Check the price for the trip with your taxi driver before getting in, and check with your hostel staff beforehand to make sure taxis are safe in your area. If you’re in Mexico City, Uber is the best way to get around.  Avoid the subway altogether- it’s incredibly crowded and Uber is so well priced that it really makes sense as the way to go.

Food In Mexico: The Good, The Bad & The Food Poisoning

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Mexican Visas & Forms

All visitors coming to Mexico who don’t require a visa will receive a form upon entering the country. Make sure you hold onto this!! I didn’t know you had to keep it and it caused issues when I was leaving.  Basically, if you lose it/throw it out (oops!) you’ll need to replace it upon leaving. It costs 500 pesos to replace, but the tricky thing here is they take cash only, which can be a huge pain! So skip the headache and hold on tight to your form.

Best Cheap Accommodation For Solo Female Travellers In Mexico

Hostel Natura Cancun

From rooftop pools to sunset views of the beach, hostels are great for solo female travellers in Mexico. You’ll have all your creature comforts whilst also being able to easily meet other travellers for adventures and exchange travel tips. Check out all hostels in Mexico .

About the author: Kate Horodyski is a lifestyle & travel writer based in Halifax, Canada.

Have you travelled Mexico solo? Where do you think are the safest places to visit in Mexico? Or are you considering it? Share your experiences in the comments below ?

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Mexico Solo Trips and Holidays 2024/2025

Mexico solo tours are for independent travelers who prefer to explore on their own. Spend time in the community of San Pedro Tlahuac, home to Nahuatl descendants, and learn about traditions like chinampa farming, fiestas, and ancient ceremonies by joining a group tour or all on your own. Take your time exploring the Mayan temples of Palenque and the ancient citadel of Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, without feeling rushed. Take a detour from a Tulum tour to enjoy some downtime in the beachside hub of Playa del Carmen and go solo on a snorkeling or scuba-diving adventure. You could also join a Mexico group tour spontaneously for specific activities and to travel to certain destinations with like-minded travelers. While on your Mexico solo travel, embark on a journey of self-discovery, adventure, networking with like-minded travelers, and personal growth while enjoying the beauty and diversity of the country. Below are some of the most sought-after solo trips to Mexico for you.

• Things to do in Mexico
• Best Time To Visit Mexico

201 solo trips in Mexico

• Starts Mexico City, Mexico
• Ends Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Mexico Unplugged

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3473'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle, Taxi & Ferry
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,025
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 304
• Total Price from: US$ 1,721
• Apr 23 Only 5 seats left
• May 18 Only 6 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Ends Mexico City, Mexico

Highlights of Mexico

• Activities Adventure & Honeymoon
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Transport Boat
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Apr 20 Only 8 seats left
• Apr 27 Only 7 seats left

Mexico City Stopover

• Activities City sightseeing
• Transport Bus
• Apr 21 10+ seats left
• Apr 22 10+ seats left

Classic Mexico Adventure

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Flight, Bus, Private Vehicle, Boat, Ferry & Taxi
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,299
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 460
• Total Price from: US$ 1,839
• May 25 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 15 Only 3 seats left

• Starts Cancún, Mexico

Mexico Yucatán Experience

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Beach Cultural, religious and historic sites , Beach & Local boat rides 'data-more-tripid='37265'>+1 more
• Transport Boat, Private Vehicle, Ferry, Minibus & Flight
• Age Range 18-40 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,245
• Special Deal (40%): - US$ 898
• Total Price from: US$ 1,347
• Apr 21 Only 6 seats left
• May 05 10+ seats left

• Ends Santa María Huatulco, Mexico

Mexico Real Food Adventure

• Activities Food tours
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle, Taxi & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,295
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 229
• Total Price from: US$ 2,066
• May 04 Only 5 seats left
• Jun 29 Only 3 seats left

• Starts Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Mayan Ruins Tour: Discover Amazing Rivera Maya Beaches, Cenotes And Ruins (15 Days)

• Trip customizable
• Activities Beach & Explorer Beach , Explorer , City sightseeing , Adventure , Walking tours , Photography tours & Sightseeing Tours 'data-more-tripid='45660'>+5 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Boat & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-69 yrs
• Operated in English, Spanish
• Jun 08 10+ seats left
• Jul 13 10+ seats left

Best of Mexico

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Local culture
• Transport Private Vehicle, Bus & Boat
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,415
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 441
• Total Price from: US$ 3,974
• May 11 Only 6 seats left
• May 18 Only 4 seats left

• Ends Cancún, Mexico

Wonders Of The Maya

• Activities Art and architecture & Active and outdoor
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,604
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 241
• Total Price from: US$ 1,363
• May 12 Only 10 seats left
• May 26 Only 10 seats left

Mexico Highlights (from Cancun) Express Travel Pass

• Activities Explorer & Sightseeing Tours Explorer , Sightseeing Tours & Walking tours 'data-more-tripid='26858'>+1 more
• Apr 17 10+ seats left
• Apr 18 10+ seats left

• Ends Tulum, Mexico

Yucatan Peninsula Adventure

• Activities Beach & Chill out
• Accommodation Resort & Hotel
• Transport Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,265
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 227
• Total Price from: US$ 2,038
• May 11 Only 3 seats left

Viva Mexico

• Free cancellation
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Beach Cultural, religious and historic sites , Beach , City sightseeing & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='35052'>+2 more
• Transport Boat, Bus & Taxi
• Age Range 15-79 yrs

Magical Mexico

• Activities Explorer & Beach
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• Apr 27 10+ seats left
• May 04 10+ seats left

Incredible Mexico Adventure 15D/14N (from Cancun)

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Explorer Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='25952'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hostel & Hotel
• Transport Boat & Bus

Traveling to Mexico alone? Chat with a local travel expert in Mexico who can help build the perfect solo trip in Mexico.

Mexico Solo Trip Reviews

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57 episodes

Solo travel is freedom. It is one of the quickest paths to personal growth & empowerment! ...One of the best places for it? Mexico 🇲🇽 Not convinced!? Join Shelley of Travel Mexico Solo, and other solo female travelers to learn all about solo travel, Mexico travel, and solo travel in Mexico! Host Shelley has been living and traveling solo in Mexico since 2018, and now she helps other women cross solo travel & Mexico travel off their bucket list. If you're ready to turn your travel Dream into your travel Destination, this podcast was made for you ✈️ Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/support

Dream To Destination Shelley Marmor

• Society & Culture
• 5.0 • 33 Ratings
• JUL 18, 2021

55 • Merida, Mexico Travel Safety

Curious about Merida, Mexico safe travel? It is actually known as the safest city in Mexico — but you’ve come to the right place to get a more thorough answer to the Is Merida Mexico Safe? — because I have lived in Merida since 2019. In this podcast, I’m sharing all my Merida and Yucatan Peninsula travel tips with you. • Based on this blog: traveltomerida.com/is-merida-mexico-safe 🏆 A TOP RATED TRAVEL PODCAST ON FEEDSPOT 🏆 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/support

• JUL 12, 2021

54 • Pt. 2: 30 Solo female travel tips (#14-30)

Need some solo travel tips & advice? The solo travel advice in this podcast comes from the experts — female travel bloggers who have been on solo vacations, and have amazing solo travel info to pass on to you. From how to take epic solo travel photos, to solo travel safety measures and solo travel safety items to pack, it’s all here! Note: This is part 2 of a 2-part podcast.• Based on this blog: travelmexicosolo.com/how-to-vacation-alone 🏆WE ARE A TOP RATED TRAVEL PODCAST ON FEEDSPOT 🏆 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/support

• JUL 5, 2021

53 • Pt. 1: 30 Solo female travel tips (#1-13)

Need some solo travel tips & advice? The solo travel advice in this podcast comes from the experts — female travel bloggers who have been on solo vacations, and have amazing solo travel info to pass on to you. From how to take epic solo travel photos, to solo travel safety measures and solo travel safety items to pack, it’s all here! (Note: This is part 1 of a 2-part podcast.) • Based on this blog: travelmexicosolo.com/how-to-vacation-alone 🏆WE ARE A TOP RATED TRAVEL PODCAST ON FEEDSPOT 🏆 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/support

• JUN 28, 2021

52 • Safe solo female travel in Mexico City

Traveling to Mexico City alone? You’ve landed on the right podcast for Mexico City solo travel tips and advice — because I used to live there! That’s right, I spent about a year in Mexico City as a solo female traveler, and have a lot of info to share with you about how you can visit this amazing city and stay safe, just like I did. • Based on this blog: travelmexicosolo.com/mexico-city-solo-travel 🏆TOP RATED TRAVEL PODCAST ON FEEDSPOT --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/support

• JUN 21, 2021

51 • Poonam talks 10 benefits of solo travel

Poonam, of blog Rex Angel, took her first solo trip in 2014. Since then, she has been to places including Mexico, London, Paris and Hawaii, all as a solo female traveler! In this episode of the podcast, we discuss 10 benefits of traveling alone, and Poonam offers advice for making the leap and embarking on your first solo female travel experience. • Based on this blog: rexangel.com/benefits-of-traveling-alone 🏆WE ARE A TOP RATED TRAVEL PODCAST ON FEEDSPOT --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/support

• JUN 14, 2021

50 • How to start a travel podcast

In honor of my 50th episode, I decided to do an episode about how to start a travel podcast! From narrowing down your niche to what equipment you need, and picking a podcast host, designing your cover art and how to find guests, this will help get you on the right track to starting a podcast for FREE! • Based on this blog: travelblogging101.com/how-to-start-a-travel-podcast 🏆WE ARE A TOP RATED TRAVEL PODCAST ON FEEDSPOT --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamtodestination/support

Customer Reviews

Helpful, motivational & fun listen.

Besides great tips on traveling solo, this podcast is super motivational, funny and well put together. It also clears up some common misconceptions about Mexico. Had never considered it as a travel destination but it is now definitely now on my list! I also checked out the TravelMexicoSolo.com website and there were colorful, gorgeous photos from many hidden gems I have never heard of. If you are planning a trip, be sure to check out the website. Shelley knows all the best spots you won’t want to miss!

This makes me want to travel!

Inspirational! Love it!

Daydreaming

As of recent I keep finding myself daydreaming about Mexico. I’ve seen my fair share of movies that always seem to leave me thinking of exploring what seems to be such a beautiful place. After stumbling upon Shellys podcast, the desire to plan an adventurous vacation is becoming more of reality. Maybe it also has to due with the way that Shelly’s voice reminds me of Winona Ryder.

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Solo Travel for Women

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For your next solo adventure, consider exploring waterfalls in Iceland, rice fields in Indonesia, beaches in Thailand and more.

Perhaps you have a bucket list of places you've always wanted to travel at the ready but you just keep waiting for the right person to go with you. But if your friends are busy, you just broke up with your partner and you're not feeling a family vacation, you don't have to wait to embark on a new adventure – just go solo .

Traveling by yourself, even as a woman, is not as challenging or scary as you might think. There are plenty of benefits: You don't have to adhere to anyone else's schedule, budget or food preferences, so you can truly prioritize yourself. Solo travel means doing whatever you want whenever you want, while seeing the places that you most want to visit. Adventuring alone as a woman can empower you to see the world on your terms.

Whether you're concerned about safety or seeking companionship, there are plenty of places around the globe to consider for your next solo trip. U.S. News has compiled this list of top solo travel destinations (and helpful tips) with expertise from women who have traversed the globe by themselves and loved it.

Barcelona, Spain

With a visit to Barcelona , immerse yourself in the local culture at your leisure, whether you want to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants or go cheer at a football (soccer) game. Writer Mona Gable says, "Barcelona is a place of wonder − medieval neighborhoods, sunny beaches, and world-class museums, not to mention Antoni Gaudí's celebrated architecture." She enjoyed exploring the Mediterranean port city, especially because of its walkability and easy-to-navigate transportation system with metro lines and buses. She also noted feeling safe on her own: "As a female traveler, I felt perfectly at ease wandering many neighborhoods alone, even at late hours, when Catalans famously dine out."

Travel tip: Gable says it's best to avoid touristy Las Ramblas – Barcelona's main thoroughfare – except to see La Boqueria, the city's legendary food market.

[See more of Barcelona:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Botswana is well known for African wildlife safaris , where travelers might encounter elephants, zebras, rhinos, lions and cheetahs while glamping in luxury tents and dining on gourmet food. "Wildlife travel offers an outstanding combination of camaraderie, safety and autonomy," says Darcie Smith, owner of Great Expeditions Travel . She recommends Botswana's green season (November to March) for solo female travelers; at this time of year the single supplement surcharge is waived at many safari camps, which offers an excellent value and means you're more likely to meet other solo travelers. It is also peak season for birding, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the lush landscape.

Many camps will send someone to meet guests upon arrival to help you navigate airports or transfers. In Smith's experience, camp guests are also escorted to their rooms at night, for an added wildlife safety element. "Solo female travelers can enjoy daily shared safari activities in intimate camps that encourage social gatherings with full independence to design the itinerary around what's best for you," she says.

Travel tip: Smith recommends making your social media accounts private when you travel so strangers can't track your location as well as learning about the customs of your destination. "This will help avoid accidentally coming across as forward or flirtatious based on local standards," she explains. "For example, while long eye contact may be considered a sign of self-confidence or being polite at home, it may come across as flirtatious in your new destination."

Picture yourself indulging in pizza and gelato, visiting world-famous museums, touring picturesque wineries, and shopping at designer boutiques – all of that is at your fingertips in Italy , writer Martha McCully's go-to travel destination. "Italians want to share their culture and it's part of their personality to welcome you," she says. "Plus, the food and wine are outrageously divine."

The idea that traveling solo means you will be alone is a misconception, according to McCully. "It's simply not true," she says. "Book a group tour at your destination, or DM a friend from your past on Instagram, which is what I did in Bologna." There are plenty of unique ways to meet fellow travelers in Italy; she recommends signing up for a cooking class in Bologna through Taste of Italy, a food tour by Curious Appetite or a painting class with Plein Air Tuscany. "The idea is you will be with like-minded travelers and someone else is doing all the organizing," McCully explains.

Travel tip: McCully suggests sticking to your wellness routine while on the road to keep healthy habits. "I like to take my rituals with me," she says. "When I ground myself with what I know makes me feel good physically and mentally, it's like I'm living in another country, not just visiting."

[Read: The Top Italy Tours .]

With glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and hot springs galore, the dramatic landscapes of Iceland make it a must-visit destination. The "Land of Fire and Ice" is also known for puffins, its Viking history and women's empowerment, with the country's reputation as a champion of gender equality.

"Iceland is a favorite destination for female solo travelers because it is easily one of the safest countries in the world," says Jenny Ly, professional travel blogger at Go Wanderly . Iceland has one of the world's lowest crime rates and no animal predators dangerous to humans – just prepare for challenging weather and exercise caution if you plan to do any driving. Ly's itinerary recommendations include whale watching, with nearly a dozen types of whales navigating Icelandic waters; visiting Vatnajökull Glacier's ice caves; and chasing the northern lights in the darker months (October to April).

Travel tip: Ly encourages solo female travelers to not let the lack of a travel companion prevent them from exploring the world. "It can be both empowering and rewarding for women to travel solo, at least once in their life," she says. "While traveling alone can be riskier than traveling with others, it can also be more fun and gratifying." Her tip is to always be aware of your surroundings.

[Read: The Top Iceland Tours .]

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

While some women may shy away from traveling to Mexico due to safety concerns, travel blogger Jeanine Romo of lewildexplorer.com , who has ventured solo to many countries, recommends visiting the charming town of San Miguel de Allende . "I decided to go on my own and had such a wonderful time," she says. "The people are friendly, the hospitality is amazing, and there are so many things to do if you love art, incredible food, and incredible architecture." San Miguel de Allende is a great option for women travelers because the city center is easily walkable and Uber is available, which Romo says made her feel safe because she could always call a ride.

Travel tip: For women traveling by themselves, Romo advises doing research on transportation options (such as local buses, metro lines and ride-sharing app availability) before you arrive. "I like to know how walkable the city I'm visiting is," says Romo. "This helps me feel so much more confident when navigating a new city."

[See more of San Miguel de Allende: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

New Zealand

From pristine beaches on the North Island to snowy mountains on the South Island – and all kinds of geological wonders in between – the diversity of New Zealand is a major draw for tourists. Travelers can learn about the indigenous Māori culture, visit a sheep farm or go sailing in Auckland , among an abundance of other incredible things to do in this island nation.

Travel blogger Nina Ragusa of whereintheworldisnina.com enjoys visiting because of the welcoming culture, outdoor adventure and feeling of safety. "Traveling New Zealand as a solo woman is quite easy, and if it's your first trip solo, this would be a good country to start in," she says. Ragusa spent a month camping in a van by herself and said she never had to worry about her safety, even in more remote areas. "I went on hikes solo, some of them deep into the mountains for miles and miles, and was either alone or passing other tourists or friendly kiwis to wave hello to," she says. Ragusa adds that New Zealand is not the cheapest travel destination, but her personal recommendation for saving money on longer trips here is to rent – or buy and later sell – a van to live in.

Travel tip: Ragusa recommends steering clear of the outskirts of the bigger cities (particularly if you do travel by van). She warns that, as in most urban destinations around the world, those parts of New Zealand are where you're more likely to run into trouble.

El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

For an outdoor adventure in South America, Argentine Patagonia offers pristine ice hiking, backpacking, kayaking, trekking and wildlife viewing. Nicol Gillum-Thomas, an African-American solo female traveler whose mission is to encourage women to live life as an adventure, enjoyed her time in the town of El Calafate. "El Calafate, Argentina, was the destination that seemed the most off-putting in my imagination, but became the trip with the most adventure, awe-inspiring beauty and ease," she says.

Travel tip: Gillum-Thomas recommends a stay at the América del Sur Hostel Calafate, saying she appreciated the clean accommodations and interesting guests.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you dream of a getaway that includes picturesque beaches and crystal-clear water, Croatia is the perfect spot to explore. In Dubrovnik , the ancient city walls and medieval architecture of Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set a particularly gorgeous scene when the sun goes down. Tamara Williams, owner of solo female travel-focused blog My Elated Odyssey , says the unmatched beauty of the surrounding sea and mountains is only one reason to plan a trip here.

"The locals are some of the nicest people I have ever met," Williams says. "They truly made it feel like a second home. They spoke English well, so no need to worry about a language barrier." She adds that this Balkan country is also considerably more affordable than destinations in Western Europe.

Travel tip: For solo female travelers, Williams suggests staying in the Lapad neighborhood or near Old Town. "Both are full of cafes, bars and shopping to keep you busy," she says.

[See more of Dubrovnik: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Svalbard, Norway

You can't go wrong in Norway , with breathtaking fjords, fascinating wildlife, scenic railways, outdoor adventure and the chance to glimpse the northern lights . Jurga Rubinovaite, founder of the travel blog Full Suitcase , says you won't want to miss Svalbard: a Norwegian archipelago located approximately 800 miles from the North Pole. "It is one of the most unique nature destinations in the world," she says. "Despite being so far north in the Arctic, it's extremely easy to visit and is also a great and safe destination for solo female travelers."

The main town, Longyearbyen, is the focal point of activities in Svalbard, which range from hiking and boat tours in the summer to winter pursuits such as ice cave visits and snowmobiling. "Because of the presence of polar bears, everything you do in Svalbard requires booking a guided tour, so you are always in safe hands," Rubinovaite explains. "Longyearbyen town itself is very lively and safe, with lots of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and a few museums, all within easy walking distance from each other."

Travel tip: For women traveling alone, Rubinovaite advises thorough research in advance of your trip to this Arctic locale; staying in hotels, rather than private accommodations; and booking guided tours or looking for a travel buddy when venturing out to very remote places.

Head to Ireland for a memorable solo getaway complete with rolling emerald-green hills, fairytale castles and Irish coffee. Experienced traveler Kelie Fiala of the Vacations Planned blog ranks this European country at the top of her list for solo travel spots. "Many attractions in Ireland are wonderful for solo travelers because they offer peaceful spots to stop and enjoy the gorgeous views, but also provide plenty of opportunities to meet friendly people at cafes and other points of interest," she says.

Fiala appreciates the nightlife and music scene of Ireland as much as the history and scenery. She suggests experiencing some of the country's pubs, even if you're a woman traveling alone, since you'll almost always find live music and friendly people. "Even if you start out by yourself, you'll easily find that you're having great conversations in no time," she says.

Travel tip: Fiala warns that for solo travelers, especially women, it's best to be careful how much you drink and leave the situation if you ever feel uncomfortable. But she also encourages women to not be afraid to have a chat. "You could hear some great stories, and make a new friend," she says.

Beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly people, exotic animals and floating markets are just some of the incredible things that you can experience in Thailand . Loredana Gogoescu, head of content for Destguides.com , says she felt safe in Thailand as soon as she arrived. "Thai people are hospitable and kind," she says. "Moreover, as a solo traveler, I was surprisingly never alone. I had to book a private room for myself at one point just to get a breather, as I was constantly meeting new people!"

Travel tip: If you're apprehensive about exploring a new place on your own, especially if you've never traveled abroad before, Gogoescu recommends sorting out all the logistics like accommodations and transportation in advance so it's easier to acclimate once you get there. She adds, "If you're afraid of being alone, join different apps like Bumble and Facebook groups for the destination you're traveling to, to see if you can match up with other solo female travelers who will be in the area at the same time as you."

Netherlands

Nailah Hayward of TheresSoMuchToSee.com says the Netherlands is a superb option for first-time solo female travelers, based on ease of transportation, overall safety, the variety of things to do and other factors. "The Netherlands comes out high on all of these areas," she says. "And after multiple visits to the country, traveling through big cities and small towns, I always felt extremely safe." With the country's extensive train system, in addition to local trams and bike lanes, navigating the Netherlands by yourself doesn't pose too great a burden. Hayward also appreciates the ease of communicating with locals as an English speaker, since most people speak English in addition to Dutch.

"Whether you are into the arts scene, outdoor activities, luxury experiences, cultural exploration or culinary delights, the Netherlands has a huge variety of activities to dive into," Hayward says. "All of these elements make the Netherlands a place that I enthusiastically recommend for solo women travelers."

Travel tip: Don't carry cash. Hayward says most transactions can be done electronically, so there's no need for frequent trips to the ATM.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Luxury family travel influencer Irina Claire Bromberg suggests Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands as a top spot for solo female travel, partially because of its high safety rating from the U.S. Department of State. There's also no shortage of activities in this Caribbean destination, with Bromberg calling Stingray City a must. "The stingrays are peaceful and gentle," she says. "They glide along the ocean floor and you're free to observe and even play with them in their natural habitat." She also recommends soaking up some sun at the renowned Seven Mile Beach .

Grand Cayman is also a foodie paradise, according to Bromberg. "The vibrant dishes are as tasty as they are exciting, representing the fascinating mix of cultures and traditions that make the island so unique," she says. Her suggestions for food to try include the classic Cayman-style lobster, coconut shrimp and Johnny cakes.

Travel tip: Bromberg recommends checking the U.S. Department of State safety rating and other solo travelers' experiences prior to booking a trip.

[See more of the Cayman Islands:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Chart your course for Istanbul , the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. This anomaly is one of many features making the Turkish city stand out as a unique destination; you'll get to experience its Byzantine architecture, Ottoman cuisine and landmarks like the Grand Bazaar on a trip here. Farihah Fuaad, a Muslim solo travel expert and founder of MuslimSoloTravel.com , says, "It offers the best of both worlds – East and West, Europe and Asia, modern and ancient – and lots of surprises." This lively, fast-paced metropolis is also rich in history and culture, with remnants of bygone eras visible in the skyline of Istanbul, according to Fuuad.

For solo travelers, there are endless opportunities for memorable experiences. "Wherever you go in Istanbul, multiple surprises await you at the corner of every street, its cobblestone alleys, or within the maze-like structure in Grand Bazaar," Fuaad says. The network of easy and convenient public transportation options also makes Istanbul a great choice for women traveling solo.

Travel tip: For first-time solo female travelers, Fuaad suggests taking time to adjust to being on your own: "Start small, by venturing to your next neighboring town or city first, or any city in your country first before you make the leap into solo traveling abroad." She adds, "Don't do things you're not comfortable with. Listen to your gut feelings – they're always right!"

[See more of Istanbul:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Bali, Indonesia

For a tropical island escape, Bali is undeniably magical. Its natural beauty spans volcanoes, waterfalls and stunning beaches, as well as sprawling rice fields, diverse nightlife and breathtaking temples. Katie Caf, travel blogger at KatieCafTravel.com , who has been traveling solo full time for the past year and a half, says Bali is by far her favorite place to visit. "The Balinese people are very respectful towards female travelers, there's no street harassment based on gender like you might find in other locations, and while no place is perfect, Bali just feels very safe as a woman," Caf says. She adds that, although Indonesia is a conservative country, she found that women traveling there aren't expected to cover up except in temples or other sacred religious sites.

Travel tip: Caf recommends that travelers always use ride-sharing apps like Uber, Gojek and Grab rather than hailing cabs off the street, since the apps' tracking features make them much safer to use for solo female travelers in foreign countries. Some of these sites also allow you to share your route with chosen contacts for added safety.

[See more of Bali:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Paris is one of the most iconic destinations in Europe for any traveler. Antoinette Harris, founder and owner of travel blog Frolic & Courage , considers the "City of Love" a superb option for women traveling solo due to its cuisine, cultural attractions and hands-on activities of all sorts. "I consider Paris the city of self-love because it has everything solo women travelers need to care for themselves and their interests," Harris says.

With the flexibility of traveling on your own, you can plan the Paris trip of your dreams. Depending on what you're interested in, you may choose to learn about French cooking, immerse yourself in the Louvre , attend an opera at the historic Palais Garnier or browse local shops, as Harris has done. "Uninhibited by the demands or requests of others, I was able to really take the time to focus on who I am, what I wanted and what sparks joy and life in my spirit," she says. "Traveling to Paris taught me how to truly enjoy spending time solo."

Travel tip: One of Harris' top tips is to not bring more than you can carry, as you won't always find someone to help you with your luggage if an escalator breaks and you have to take the stairs. "By keeping only the essentials, you're able to move quickly to and from your destination without worrying too much about being a target for crime," Harris says. She also recommends downloading an offline map you can reference even without internet connection and sharing your itinerary with family members or friends who could help in a sticky situation.

[See more of Paris:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

New York City

It's hard to beat the allure of the twinkling lights of Times Square , award-winning Broadway shows and Lady Liberty . Melanie Musson, a travel expert with AutoInsurance.org , loves taking a solo trip to New York City , saying she doesn't even have the chance to feel lonely because the hustle and bustle of the big city keeps her sufficiently distracted.

Musson says that, while there are risks for visitors in any city, the odds of anything scary happening to you in New York are low as long as you take appropriate precautions. "New York City prioritizes tourist safety because they know they’d lose this valuable industry if visitors had frequent bad experiences," she explains, adding that you may be surprised how friendly the local residents are. "They're usually happy to help you identify the right subway line to take or bus to catch. They'll probably even give you tips on the best places to eat or things to see."

Travel tip: Musson's pre-trip tip is to check crime reports in the destination you're heading to and stay within the safe areas. "Trust your gut and get out of the area if you don't feel safe," she cautions.

[See more of New York City:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

The city of Singapore is known for being clean, green and safe for travelers – as well as expensive. Singapore boasts impressive architecture, the iconic Singapore sling cocktail, street food markets and luxury shopping malls. Daina Cohen, editor at WorldlyKnown.com , says, "Singapore is a fantastic destination for solo women travelers because of its vibrant, yet safe culture and exciting sights." On a solo trip to this Southeast Asian city, you can experience the unique blend of diverse cultures and cuisines, Cohen says, in addition to other benefits. "It's easy to navigate with plenty of public transportation options, plus an excellent healthcare system, which makes it a great choice for those who want to travel solo," Cohen notes. Tourists should research Singapore's laws – such as a ban on chewing gum – before traveling there to avoid fines.

Travel tip: Cohen advises staying in a hostel (which often have options for women-only dorms) or renting an Airbnb for more privacy. You'll also want to familiarize yourself with the city's public transportation system prior to arrival.

[See more of Singapore: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to solo travel for women. Her first trip by herself was to New Zealand when she was 19. Since then, she has traveled solo all over the U.S. and to countries such as Fiji, Argentina, Chile and Italy. Her favorite destination to travel alone is still her native California, which offers a diverse landscape from the city to the sea and the mountains and the desert.

You might also be interested in:

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Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

Tags: Travel

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Is Oaxaca Safe? What You Need to Know As a Solo Traveler

03/01/2022 by Emily Becker 1 Comment

This post was written by Emily Becker, who is a Mexico-based freelance writer for BMTM.

Oaxaca is a state in southern Mexico that has a glorious reputation for being one of the most culturally vibrant places in the country. The state is mountainous, with a rugged coastline that gives way to sandy beaches and quintessential surf towns. The capital, Oaxaca de Juárez (or Oaxaca City), is a bustling place, bursting with color. It’s the gastronomic capital of Mexico — and for good reason.

That said, the question on your mind as a traveler is probably: Is Oaxaca safe? As a solo female traveler who has visited the city of Oaxaca a handful of times, I’m here to address your biggest safety concerns with these tips:

Table of Contents

1. Choose Your Accommodations Wisely

My biggest piece of advice for staying safe in Oaxaca City is choosing accommodations that are in the Centro, Xochimilco, Reforma, or Jalatlaco neighborhoods. The first time I visited, I stayed in the Centro, and although I felt safe, it’s a noisy place to stay.

If you want to stay central but in a quiet and safe neighborhood, opt for Xochimilco or Jalatlaco. Both of these areas are famous for their impeccable street art scenes, so you’ll want to visit them anyway. I stayed in the Xochimilco neighborhood the last time I was in Oaxaca and absolutely loved the quaint streets, colorful murals, and family atmosphere.

Reforma is also a safe neighborhood, but it’s a bit further out. It takes about a 20-minute walk to get to the Centro from Reforma, depending on what end of the neighborhood you’re in.

2. Be Wary of Taxis

The first time I visited Oaxaca at the end of 2019, I was shocked by how much the taxi drivers harassed my friend and me. To be honest, I would not have recommended taking a regular taxi in Oaxaca if you had asked me then.

However, the city has cracked down big-time on harassment, and more and more women are coming forward to denounce their aggressors. I can’t be certain if these two things are connected, but I noticed a shift this last time I visited Oaxaca. I wasn’t harassed at all — not in the street or in taxis. Maybe this is unique to my experience, but I’d like to hope that things are changing.

A great way to ensure your safety while taking taxis in Oaxaca is to take quick photos of the license plate and taxi number before you get in. Make this obvious — when the driver sees your vigilance, they will be more likely to be on their best behavior.

If you still feel unsure about taxis in Oaxaca, consider trying DiDi. It’s like Uber and allows you to file a complaint if your driver makes you feel unsafe.

3. A Little Mezcal Goes a Long Way

Oaxaca is known globally for its mezcal, and there are plenty of places to try it. Since so many people flock to Oaxaca to do so, it’s no surprise that there’s a dense party culture here. Any given day, you can find mezcalerías , bars, and clubs full of people drinking and partying.

If you’ve tried mezcal, you know that it’s quite strong. If you haven’t, well, I’ll save you from a nasty hangover by breaking the news.

I’ve always had a great time in Oaxaca, dancing and socializing while sipping mezcal, but it’s never a good idea to binge-drink in a foreign place.

Maybe I sound like a broken record, but be careful how much you drink when you travel. Letting your guard down too much can put you at risk — and no party is worth losing control.

If you want to try the different kinds of mezcal in a more low-key environment, opt for a daytime mezcal tasting. Many tours offer them as a part of the excursion, like this one .

4. Eat Street Food Wisely

Oaxaca is street food heaven. From tlayudas to mole and everything in between, you could spend your whole trip eating nothing but street food and be completely satisfied with the variety you’ll find.

Not all street food stands are created equally when it comes to hygiene, however. Especially if your stomach is not used to the spices used in Mexican cooking, you might find yourself wishing you hadn’t gone for that second splash of salsa verde on your roadside tacos.

To have the best chance of avoiding any tummy troubles while enjoying Oaxaca’s incredible street fare, look for the stands where there are long lines of people waiting to order. Chances are, locals won’t be lining up somewhere that has a reputation for being unhygienic.

Another tip is to eat inside the market. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is full of small stalls, and many of them are local favorites, where you’ll find lots of people enjoying a meal. These stalls are usually cleaner than the ones on the street, as the market has a higher standard of hygiene.

I recommend taking a lap around the market or the street food stalls near the Zócalo around lunchtime, say 2 or 3pm. See which place is the most popular, and go back around 4 or 5pm, when there are fewer patrons.

5. Dress Down

Oaxaca is definitely not the place to flaunt any flashy jewelry or designer clothing that could make you a target for petty crime. Considering that most people — locals and tourists alike — dress pretty casually, anything too glamorous would make you stick out like a sore thumb.

6. Learn Some Basic Spanish

Sometimes I find that people from Mexico are shocked that I speak Spanish fluently, which makes me chuckle a little bit. Speaking the language has opened many doors for me and allowed me to make friends easily, even when I was a beginner.

For some people, it can be daunting to take on learning a new language. You don’t have to be fluent to stay safe in Oaxaca, but it sure helps to know at least a little bit of Spanish.

If you can master basic greetings and key phrases, you’re off to a great start. Being able to ask for help if you need it, tell a taxi driver to stop, or let a waitress know about your food allergy are all important things to be able to express in Spanish.

7. Stick to the Centro at Night

Walking around alone at night anywhere isn’t a great idea, but if you are going to do it in Oaxaca, stick to the Centro. It’s well-lit, there are plenty of people, and you’ll find pedestrian-only streets that are safer to walk along.

I noticed that some of the streets outside of the Centro were dark, with unexpected alleys and overall not the safest vibe. When in doubt, just take a DiDi car, or avoid going anywhere you’re not familiar with at night, especially if it’s outside the city center.

8. Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems

It’s never a good idea to walk around with copious amounts of cash while traveling, and Oaxaca is no different. However, ATM fees can be way too high to consider taking out small amounts more frequently. To get around this, take out what you need in the morning at a bank’s ATM (avoid ATMs in the big markets or on the street), then take a DiDi to your accommodation and lock your cash in a safe. Only keep what you need when you leave your room.

Even if you only take small amounts of cash with you when you go out, consider dispersing it between your wallet, purse, bra, etc. That way, if you are robbed or pickpocketed, the thief won’t take everything you have. Some travelers recommend having a dummy wallet with a bit of cash and expired cards to hand over.

READ NEXT: The best travel purses for women

9. “No, Gracias”

This one is less about your safety and more about the safety of others.

You might notice a lot of people in the city center asking for change. Sometimes you’ll see children selling goods as well. Even after living in Mexico for over two years, I’m still unsure what my cash would be supporting if I were to buy from those children or give change to people on the street. Some reports suggest that contributing to this informal market is the same as contributing to child trafficking, and that’s enough for me to avoid it altogether.

I know that is is a complex issue, and I don’t claim to have all the answers, so use your own judgment on this one. I always just smile and say “no, gracias” to the kids, and then they go on their way.

10. Vet Any Tour Companies

As you walk through the Zócalo in Oaxaca’s city center, you’ll see loads of people promoting tours to nearby sites. A lot of these are fine, but to say that they’re all totally safe or worth your money would be a stretch. Some tour companies don’t always follow safety protocols and do a sloppy job of giving tourists accurate information about the sites.

It’s best to just avoid the hawkers altogether in Oaxaca, and opt for a tour from GetYourGuide or Viator instead. I’ve even done Airbnb Experiences here and had a wonderful (and safe) time.

11. Get a Mexican SIM Card

I don’t think that many people realize how cheap it is to pick up a SIM card and use it while they’re in Mexico. A SIM from Telcel (the biggest provider in Mexico) costs 150 pesos ($7.50 USD), and you can easily pay as you go, loading data onto your SIM using your credit or debit card.

Having a SIM card can be a great way to stay safe, because you’ll have the peace of mind of being able to connect at any time. You’ll be able to access maps if you get lost, use a translator app to communicate better, and make a call if you’re in danger.

Some US phone companies allow their users a certain amount of data per day while in Mexico, so ask yours before you head to Oaxaca to see if getting a SIM card is even necessary. You can also consider getting an international eSIM for convenience.

12. Traveling Solo as a Woman in Oaxaca

My first experience traveling in Oaxaca was very different from those that followed. I don’t have a clear explanation as to why, but perhaps I’ve just become better at traveling alone and now know how to avoid scams, food poisoning, and overall danger.

The first time I went to Oaxaca, I was followed and catcalled twice. On top of that, a couple of taxi drivers made very inappropriate comments to me that made me feel unsafe.

To be honest, I was hesitant to solo travel here again. But since I had arranged to meet a friend in Oaxaca in January of 2022, I decided to face my fear and spend a few days alone here before she joined me. This time was totally different. Not a single taxi driver harassed me, for which I felt a huge sigh of relief. I also noticed less street harassment, even though I was there longer and was out and about more this time around.

Is this to say that Oaxaca is safer now? Not really. I recognize that my feeling safer this last time I went to Oaxaca might be due to chance. Perhaps two more years of living in Mexico has also made it easier for me to blend in?

First Name:

In any case, I still think Oaxaca is totally worth visiting as a solo female traveler. But it’s especially important for us to be vigilant, to plan our trip carefully, and avoid dangers like scam artists and men who prey on drunk foreign women in bars (yes, they exist).

Try to do as much as you can during daylight hours, avoid drinking too much, and make sure your phone is working order in case of emergencies. Never engage with catcallers and they’ll leave you alone.

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Overall, Oaxaca takes the cake as one of the most exciting places to visit in Mexico. If you keep in mind these safety tips, you’ll be a bit sharper and able to make safer decisions when you visit Oaxaca de Juárez or the coast, allowing you to have an incredible experience.

Thinking of heading to Oaxaca? Check out our guides to Oaxaca City , Puerto Escondido , and Zipolite !

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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03/02/2022 at 5:13 pm

Hey Emily! I think it was great how you gave it another chance as a solo traveler especially since it had so much going for it otherwise and you had so much nicer an experience the second go around. Also appreciate the honest, unfiltered description of the experience and how to best handle it. Plus how being a solo female traveler should not restrict you to enjoy exciting places, so empowering to not let these bad elements dictate how you live and where you want to explore if using common sense (which honestly would apply to anyone!). You make Mexico seem such a desirable destination from corner to corner. I love all the colors! Cheers!

12 Safety Tips for Solo Female Travel

A s a solo female traveler, other women often ask if it’s safe, isn’t it dangerous, or aren’t I afraid? Should I really be traveling alone? 

Yes, no, no, YES!

I won’t kid you. Traveling alone comes with a series of obstacles and considerations. I’ve been on many solo trips to several places in Europe, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Canada and have traveled alone for nearly two years. So I know a few things about solo female travel safety.

Here are a few solo female travel tips I use to stay safe.  

1. The right attitude can keep you safe

It helps if you’re a badass or can at least act like one. Let’s be frank; most “badasses” are just acting, so fear not. You can do this. It’s time to channel your inner Daenerys Targaryen.

But it’s more than acting tough, cool, or aloof; it’s being conscious of your behavior in public spaces when people are watching you. Crooks and bad guys are looking for targets that will be easy to take advantage of – so never let them see you sweat or look confused if you can help it.

I grew up with half a dozen males, so I know how to protect myself. I also played roller derby in Detroit for a few years, so I know to give and receive blows, and when traveling solo, I try to carry that attitude. “Do not make me hip-check you,” I think as I walk past shifty-looking people.

More than ability or strength, what these experiences have given me is confidence. Confidence can be your most powerful tool as you embark on solo female travel.

2. Transition spaces breed chaos

Before I go into a public space when catching public transportation (buses, trains, cars, trolleys, etc.) moving through densely populated spaces, walking, or standing in lines, I prepare via maps and information gathering. I try to be as prepared as possible so I never get lost or confused. Of course, I’m frequently lost and confused, but I try not to look it.

So many travelers ignore the people around them. They are distracted by their surroundings, phones and companions. Distracted travelers make easy targets, especially in crowded places when it’s easy to bump into people or grab a bag off a chair or phone off a counter in two seconds flat.

When I’m in public, I keep an alert, serious look on my face and avoid contact or conversation with random people who approach me. I try to be discreet in all I do, watch the people around me and try not to look lost, scared, or unsure ever. I’m frequently all those things.

That’s not to say that I don’t smile or enjoy myself – absolutely I do! But at the same time, I want to project that I’m not flaky or gullible, or overly approachable. If you’re a single gal looking to mingle, you may have to adapt your strategy but use double the ordinary sense.

3. Your cell phone is not always your friend

I never walk around staring at my phone. I keep my phone in a secure interior pocket until I need it, and then I observe my surroundings and choose a spot to pull my phone out. I’m always taking photos and videos, but I’m conscious of my surroundings and guard my phone like gold. When you’re alone in another country, it is!

As sad as it is, you need to be twice as aware on solo female travel trips. I can’t tell you how many stories I’ve heard about people getting their bags snatched while looking at their phones. Wait until you get back to your room to check your messages and apps or post photos.

Caveat: When I get into the car, I often pretend I’m talking to someone and tell them details about the vehicle I’m getting into and where I’m going so the driver can hear. I want him to know I’m not alone and unaccounted for!

4. Blend into the environment

When traveling solo in public places, I try to blend in and appear uninteresting. I’ll even avoid speaking in some situations in other countries for as long as I can get away with it so I don’t give away that I’m American. Blending techniques:

• My travel clothes are basic and never flashy
• Don’t use a selfie stick or carry a camera around your neck
• Say no to traditional hip sacks instead use one that goes with your ensemble if you must
• In Europe, ditch white tennis shoes (this is standard American tourist garb)
• Don’t buy more than will fit in your backpack, so you’re never carrying shopping bags around

5. Do not engage with people in the streets

It may seem rude, but I never engage with people in the streets. When traveling in tourist areas, people will try to sell things and ask innocent-seeming questions. I shake my head no and keep walking.

If someone is trying to stop you in the street in a tourist area there’s a 99% likelihood that they’re trying to 1: sell you something, 2: ask you to give them money, or 3: steal from you.

Pickpockets operate by distracting and bumping into you, so I try to avoid letting them. I also keep all my valuables on my person in zippered pockets close to the front of my body. Don’t put your cell phone or anything in your back pocket if you want to keep it.

6. Cash is king, so guard it

In small countries, cash is still necessary, so I keep small amounts in different pockets, so I’m never seen pulling out a wad of bills. In fact, I try to avoid cash as much as possible and use credit, preferably Apple Pay or another wallet app, so I don’t even have to pull my card out.

7. Watch your stuff

I can’t tell you how many people I see walking around with cell phones in a small back pocket or left on the bar or table next to them. I’ve seen purses sitting on the table and backpacks left open and unattended on the beach. My cousin once got stranded in Mexico because he did this.

I always travel with a backpack, and when I’m sitting down, I ensure that it’s zipped and my arm or leg is always looped around its strap. It’s never left unattended.

I don’t carry shopping bags, but if I did, I’d secure them under my table, legs or looped around my arm in public. Snatch and grabs are a favorite pastime for thieves in densely populated shopping districts.

Why would you steal from someone alert and paying attention when there are so many easier victims? You wouldn’t! That’s probably why I’ve never had any issues.

8. You’re pilot and co-pilot when you solo female travel

When I travel solo, I’m the only person to figure out logistics and directions. Avoiding being lost is an important component of staying safe, so this is an important job.

I am meticulous about planning locations, times, transportation options, and the cost of everything I plan to do when I travel before leaving home. Some things I do are:

• Write agendas with the times and days in which I will do certain things and double-check opening hours and days.
• Map out directions and transportation options in advance to ensure I have enough time to get from place to place.
• Spend time the night before double-checking tickets and directions and ensuring I have all I need before leaving the hotel.

With only myself to depend on and the likelihood that people may not speak the same language, I try to be ready for anything.

I always have paper redundancies and copies of my documents in the cloud.

9. Internet redundancies

The internet in other countries and remote locations can be flaky at best, so I never depend on my phone – I only hope it will work and it’s a happy bonus when it does. I’ve used Verizon TravelPass and Skyroam wifi for international travel. I also have an unlocked cellphone, and this allows me to buy a sim card for the country I’m traveling in.

When I have a cellphone connection, I screenshot important information (directions, especially) if I can’t get service again when I need it.

10. You can still have fun, but keep your head

I have half a dozen stories from friends who got drunk and had their items stolen because they stopped paying attention. When you solo female travel you must practice the most caution when drinking.

While I have sided up to many bars in my travels – it’s where I’ve met some of the best people – but I never drink until I’m drunk. I keep a glass of water with my beer to keep “drinking” while I socialize.

I’m cautious about never taking drinks from anyone except the bartender when I can see him prepare and deliver them. This should go without saying, but I never leave my drink unattended. Not even with the “friends” I just made.

11. Better safe than sorry with documents

I keep two paper copies of my passport, credit cards, emergency contact numbers (including U.S. Embassy), hotel information, etc., on my person and in my hotel, van, or Airbnb in case of theft or loss.

I also keep my cash and credit cards in multiple different places. On my body, in my bag, and at my hotel. That way, if anything is lost, I still have finances available to me.

12. Homebase support

When I travel, I ensure that my closest friends and family are always aware of where I am and how to reach me. I give them my travel itinerary and hotel information and exchange texts or calls each day. If I ever go missing, it will be obvious pretty quickly.

Don’t be so serious; just aware

By following these practices when I solo female travel, I’m confident I’m doing all I can to stay safe, and that allows me to have more fun without worrying. The most important thing is

PAY ATTENTION

Almost every single travel theft or mishap I’ve heard of happened because the person wasn’t paying attention or was too trusting of strangers in strange places.

I’ve traveled by myself on what amounts to more than 50 trips and I’ve never had an issue – or one that wasn’t quickly fixed by following these practices.

So pay attention, be aware, and have fun.

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.”  Helen Keller

I’m grateful and fortunate I’ve never had anything happen to me while traveling, and if you follow some of these tips and pay attention to everything around you, you’ll be fortunate too.

What is your best solo female travel tip?

See other travel stories here .

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The post 12 Safety Tips for Solo Female Travel appeared first on Middle Journey .

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, what you need to know to watch monday's total solar eclipse.

The NPR Network

A stunning celestial event is visible across the country Monday, when the moon crosses directly in front of the sun: a total solar eclipse. For those in the path of totality, there will be a few brief moments when the moon completely covers the sun and the world becomes dark.

Traveling for totality? Skip ahead.

This will be the last chance to catch a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. for about 20 years, so here's what you need to know to safely enjoy!

When is the eclipse?

April 8, 2024 there will be a total solar eclipse that crosses from the Pacific coast of Mexico through the United States.

What is totality and why it matters

According to NASA , totality will start around 11:07 a.m. PDT/1:07 EDT in Mexico and leave Maine at around 1:30 pm PDT/3:30 pm EDT.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

Check out this table for when the partial eclipse and totality are visible in each region or check by zip code here.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the contiguous United States, so even if you're not directly in the path, you should be able to see something special, weather permitting.

Unable to get to totality? We'll be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you can't see it in real time.

Where to see totality?

More than 30 million people live in the path of totality for Monday's eclipse, and many more in nearby areas.

Here's what we know about Monday's weather forecast.

Why totality matters

As NPR's Neil Greenfieldboyce explains , "During a total eclipse, the sky darkens suddenly and dramatically . The temperature drops. Stars come out. Beautiful colors appear around the horizon. And the once-familiar sun becomes a black void in the sky surrounded by the glowing corona — that's the ghostly white ring that is the sun's atmosphere."

Eclipse Science

For april's eclipse, going from 'meh' to 'omg' might mean just driving across town.

A partial eclipse, while still a fun experience, is hardly as dramatic. Those with a view of the partial eclipse will see crescent-shaped shadows like those seen here in 2017.

How to watch safely

If you plan to look directly at the eclipse (partial or totality), you're going to need eclipse glasses handy because looking directly at the sun without proper protection ( traditional sunglasses don't count! ) can be harmful to your eyes.

The perfect celestial soundtrack to the total solar eclipse

As NPR's Joe Hernandez explains, "Proper eye protection must be worn throughout a total solar eclipse — except for the roughly 3 1/2 to 4 minutes when the moon fully obscures the sun, a brief period known as 'totality.' (You will need to take your glasses off during totality to actually see it.)"

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses, you can get crafty with things you have around the house ( like some of us did back in 2017!) More on that here.

Traveling for totality?

The celestial event is driving a ton of domestic travel to the path of totality. If you're headed out of town to view the eclipse, here are some NPR Network resources for areas in the path of totality:

Texas The path of totality crosses through the Lone Star State, with some areas expecting a possible influx of visitors in the hundreds of thousands to catch prime viewing. Our member stations across the state have gathered local resources to help you navigate the region and the eclipse!

• San Antonio: Check out the latest from Texas Public Radio
• Dallas: Explore KERA's coverage for the latest
• Austin: Head to KUT for the best local resources

Arkansas The eclipse will be cutting through the state, putting Little Rock in the path of totality. Check out Little Rock Public Radio for local resources.

The southwestern edge of the state will be well-positioned to witness the total solar eclipse this year. Kentucky Public Radio is covering the eclipse throughout the region, from Kentuckiana eclipse mania to the University of Louisville's free class about the celestial event. Keep an eye on WKMS for the latest local updates.

Missouri The southeastern corner of the state will be in the path of totality, crossing across towns like Whitewater and Ste. Genevieve. Head to St. Louis Public Radio for local coverage and resources. Illinois Carbondale seems to have won the eclipse lottery, being in the path of totality both in 2017 and for this year's eclipse . For resources from across the state, check out Illinois Public Media .

Indiana A huge portion of the state will be within the path of totality, giving cities across Indiana, including Bloomington and Indianapolis, prime viewing of the eclipse.

• Bloomington: Check out Indiana Public Media
• Indianapolis: Head to WFYI for the latest
• Fort Wayne: Just north of the path of totality, WBOI has resources for the Allen County area

Ohio The Buckeye State is getting bisected by this year's path of totality, plunging a number of the state's most populous areas into darkness for a few minutes on Monday.

• Cleveland: Head to Ideastream Public Media for the latest.
• Columbus: With the capital city just south of totality, head to WOSU for regional resources.
• Cincinnati: Totality will just miss the border town. Here are some tips from WVXU on how to navigate the eclipse in the region.

Pennsylvania Only the northwestern-most corner of the state will catch totality, with views from the lakeside in Erie being particularly well-positioned for a stunning viewing experience. WESA has more from across the region.

Plan to watch the eclipse from a wild mountain summit? Be ready for harsh conditions

New York Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Plattsburgh will fall under the path of totality on Monday. If you're planning to travel to the region for the best views, here are some local resources to stay safe and informed:

• Buffalo: Head to WBFO for the latest
• Syracuse: WAER has more on plans in the Salt City
• North Country: NCPR has the latest from across the region, as well as information on local viewing events to check out

Vermont The Green Mountain State will see totality across its most populous region, including Burlington and Montpelier, as well as the Northeast Kingdom on the Canadian border. Vermont Public has everything you need to know to navigate your time in the region to enjoy the eclipse safely. New Hampshire The northernmost region of the Granite State will be in the path of totality, providing prime viewing to those in Coos County. NHPR has info on local events, travel updates as well as special coverage with New Hampshire Public Television. Maine The last state in the path of totality in the U.S., much of Northern Maine will be positioned for prime viewing. The rural region is preparing for an influx of visitors, and safety officials are encouraging visitors and locals alike to be prepared. Maine Public will be covering the eclipse and has everything you need to know to navigate the region safely.

How to document the eclipse safely

With the ease of cell photography , it can be tempting to reach for your phone to document the eclipse and the moments of totality, but make sure to do so safely.

As NPR's Scott Neuman explains , "For starters, you'll need to wear eclipse glasses or similar protective eye gear while aiming your camera or even just observing the eclipse."

Feeling ambitious? Here are a few more tips.

Or if you're not inclined to capture the moment visually, you lean into some other forms of creative expression. Indiana, for example, has named Linda Neal Reising the official poet in the state for this year's eclipse.

As former NPR reporter and eclipse superfan David Baron shared with Life Kit , viewing totality "[is] like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."

So consider focusing on being present in the moment to enjoy the celestial spectacle.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans? Check out these kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides from Vermont Public's But Why, and this great explainer from KERA Kids on the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
• Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view? Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time. NPR's Emily Alfin Johnson compiled these resources.

• 2024 eclipse