Safe Cities In Mexico For Solo Female Travelers

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Is Mexico safe? That’s the first question everyone asks when I tell them I travel solo through Mexico.

And honestly? The cities in Mexico are safer than half the American cities I’ve lived in.

The first time I told my mom I was flying by myself to Mexico, she practically had a panic attack.

“Have you seen the news?” Yeah, I had. And I’d also done my homework.

Because here’s what the headlines won’t tell you: Mexico isn’t a monolith. Saying “Mexico is dangerous” is like saying “America is dangerous” because of crime statistics in Baltimore or Detroit.

I’ve traveled to Mexico so many times I can’t even count, and yet I’m still here to write about it.

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Not only that, I felt more welcome and safer than I have in Memphis, where I’ve had my car stolen at TJ Maxx.

So let’s cut through the fear-mongering. Yes, Mexico has safe cities where solo female travelers can feel safe.

I’m talking actual data here, not just my feelings. According to Numbeo’s 2024 crime statistics, Tulum has a crime rate of just 38.11% lower than Atlanta (54.18%), Memphis (73.17%), and my hometown’s sketchy zip codes.

The real question isn’t “Is Mexico safe?”

It’s “Which parts of Mexico are safe, and how do I travel smart?” That’s exactly what I’m breaking down for you today.

Whether you’re craving Cancun’s turquoise waters, Tulum’s boho beach vibes, or want to know if Puerto Vallarta lives up to the hype, I’ve got you covered with real crime data, personal experiences, and the street-smart advice that kept me safe across 13 Mexican cities.

I consider myself a safety expert in Mexico, and I’ve written tons of articles on Mexico safety, including Cancun, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, Loreto, and many more destinations. 

I have included popular areas in the country and some lesser-known, equally exciting cities.

So, without further ado, here is a list of some of my favorite safest places in Mexico.

Short Summary: Safest Places in Mexico to Visit in 2026

First, let’s address the elephant in the room.

Yes, some parts of Mexico are unsafe, and it’s essential to be aware of them. 

For example, the US Department of State has issued travel advisories for certain states and regions in Mexico due to rates of crime and violence.

Most Mexican states are safe for tourists and expats alike, and these cities have low rates of petty crime and are popular with U.S. visitors because they have a strong police presence and rely heavily on tourism to boost the economy.

Some of the safest areas of Mexico for tourists and ex-pats include:

• The Yucatan Peninsula: Includes Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Merida, which are known for their beautiful white sand beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and lively Mexican culture. While these areas can be packed with tourists, they are considered safe if you stick to vacation hot spots and take standard precautions.
• The Pacific Coast: Includes Puerto Vallarta, Huatulco and Ensenada. You’ll find stunning coastlines, friendly locals, and delicious seafood here.
• Baja California Sur: Includes Los Cabos, La Paz, Loreto and Todos Santos. It is renowned for its laid-back vibe, desert landscapes and whale-watching opportunities.
• Mexico’s Central Highlands and Colonial Cities: Includes San Miguel de Allende, Guadalajara, and Oaxaca City, which are rich in history, stunning architecture, and impressive cultural scenes.

1. Tulum, Mexico

Crime Rate: 38.11% (Lowest in Mexico)

I almost didn’t go to Tulum. Everyone started posting those perfect Instagram shots around COVID and it seemed like the whole world was flocking to Tulum, so I figured it was too touristy to be authentic.

Boy, was I wrong.

Tulum isn’t just pretty. It’s statistically the safest tourist destination in Mexico, with a crime rate of 38.11% according to Numbeo, that’s lower than Cabo (44.50%), Playa del Carmen (47.31%), and definitely lower than half the cities back home.

I spent seven days solo in Tulum and never once felt sketchy. Yeah, petty theft happens (secure your beach bag, people), but violent crime? Nearly nonexistent against tourists.

The 2025 incidents you’ve heard about? Gang-on-gang stuff that doesn’t touch tourist zones.

Here’s what actually makes Tulum safe:

• Heavy police presence along the beach road and downtown
• Tourist-dependent economy means locals protect visitors
• Small-town vibe where everyone knows everyone
• Well-lit main areas even late at night

Tulum has definitely changed. It’s expensive now, the once-quiet beach has party spots, and yes, there was cartel violence in 2021-2022.

However, the Mexican government cracked down hard, and current data shows Tulum is back to being one of Mexico’s safest spots.

My personal safety tips for Tulum:

• Stay in the Hotel Zone or Beach Road—skip downtown after 10pm
• Use bike locks (bike theft is the #1 crime here)
• Take official taxis or Uber (download the app before you go)
• Keep copies of your passport, not the original, when heading to cenotes

• Check out “Is Tulum Safe?” where I cover recent 2025 incidents and which specific areas to avoid.
• Best Time to Visit: November-April (dry season, fewer mosquitoes)
• Budget: $$-$$$ (getting pricier every year)
• Perfect For: Yoga retreats, cenote diving, Mayan ruins, beach clubs

Book Tulum Hotels | Best Tulum Tours

2. Puerto Vallarta

Crime Rate: 42.89% | Safe for Solo Travelers

Puerto Vallarta was the first place in Mexico where I actually felt relaxed walking around alone at night.

The Malecón boardwalk at 9 pm? Packed with families, couples, and solo travelers like me just enjoying the ocean breeze.

This isn’t some hidden gem anymore. Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most established tourist destinations, and they take security seriously.

The city’s economy relies on tourism, so local authorities prioritize visitor safety. You’ll see police presence everywhere, especially around the hotel zones and downtown areas.

The numbers back up what I experienced: Numbeo ranks Puerto Vallarta’s crime at 42.89%, which is moderate but mostly petty theft.

Violent crime against tourists? Extremely rare. The biggest “danger” I encountered was getting talked into buying overpriced silver jewelry.

What makes Puerto Vallarta genuinely safe:

• Tourist police patrol the Malecón and Zona Romántica 24/7
• Well-lit streets in all major tourist areas
• Strong expat community means English-speaking help is everywhere
• Private beach security at resort areas

I dive deep into current safety conditions, recent incidents, and neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdowns in my Is Puerto Vallarta Safe? guide.

Where to Stay: The Garza Blanca Resort & Spa is hands-down the most luxurious property I’ve experienced in Puerto Vallarta.

Perched on a cliff with infinity pools overlooking Banderas Bay, this all-inclusive resort offers butler service, private beach access, and spa treatments that’ll make you forget the outside world exists.

At around $500-800/night, it’s pricey, but solo travelers get the same level of pampering as couples.

• Best Time to Visit: November-May (dry season, avoid hurricane risk)
• Budget: $ (affordable compared to Cabo or Tulum)
• Perfect For: Beach clubs, sunset cruises, zip-lining, LGBTQ+ friendly scene

Book Puerto Vallarta Hotels | Best Puerto Vallarta Tours

3. Huatulco

Crime Rate: 31.45% | Hidden Gem Safety

Huatulco is where Mexicans vacation when they want to avoid tourist crowds and that tells you everything.

This Oaxacan beach town is so safe that locals recommended I take public buses instead of taxis to save money. Public buses. In a beach town. That’s how chill it is.

With a crime rate of just 31.45%, Huatulco ranks among the safest beach destinations in all of Mexico.

It’s a planned eco-tourism destination built in the 1980s, meaning security was baked into the design.

Nine bays, pristine beaches, and almost zero crime make this my go-to recommendation for nervous first-time solo travelers to Mexico.

Why Huatulco feels so safe:

• Small size means everyone knows everyone
• Eco-tourism focus attracts nature lovers, not party crowds
• Geographic isolation from cartel activity
• Strong police presence despite the laid-back vibe

Where to Stay: Las Brisas Huatulco sits on a cliff overlooking Tangolunda Bay and perfectly blends luxury with Huatulco’s relaxed atmosphere.

Rooms start around $200/night (a steal for this level of service), and the multiple pools, direct beach access, and palapa-style architecture make you feel like you’ve discovered Mexico before Instagram ruined it.

• Best Time to Visit: November-May (dry season, perfect weather)
• Budget: $ (mid-range, great value)
• Perfect For: Snorkeling, coffee plantation tours, beaches, eco-adventures

Book Huatulco Hotels | Best Huatulco Tours

4. Mexico City

Crime Rate: 53.74% | Safe in Tourist Neighborhoods

Okay, hear me out on Mexico City. Yes, the overall crime rate looks higher at 53.74%, but this is a city of 22 million people you can’t compare it to beach towns.

The neighborhoods where you’ll actually spend time (Roma, Condesa, Polanco, Centro Histórico) are safer than you think.

I spent a month solo in Mexico City, and once I learned which neighborhoods to stick to, I felt completely comfortable.

The metro during rush hour? That’s where you need to watch for pickpockets. But walking through Condesa at 10pm to grab tacos? Totally fine.

Mexico City has invested billions in security infrastructure and there are cameras everywhere, tourist police, and neighborhood patrols. The key is knowing where to go and where to avoid.

Roma, Condesa, and Polanco safety tips:

• Stay in these neighborhoods after dark
• Use Uber/DiDi exclusively (never street taxis)
• Keep phone hidden on public transport
• Trust your gut and stick to busy streets

I break down neighborhood-by-neighborhood safety in my comprehensive Is Mexico City Safe? guide, including specific metro lines to avoid and which colonias (neighborhoods) are actually dangerous.

Where to Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City occupies a renovated 1700s palace in Polanco and treats solo guests like royalty.

The inner courtyard restaurant, rooftop bar with skyline views, and proximity to world-class museums make this worth the $400-600/night splurge. Plus, the concierge team helped me navigate safety concerns with insider knowledge.

• Best Time to Visit: March-May or September-November (avoid rainy summer)
• Budget: −- −$ (range from hostels to luxury)
• Perfect For: Museums, food tours, arts scene, nightlife, history

Book Mexico City Hotels | Best Mexico City Tours

5. Mérida

Crime Rate: 34.12% | Safest Large City in Mexico

Mérida blew my mind. I’m talking about a city where locals leave their doors unlocked, where I walked home alone at midnight without a second thought, where the biggest crime wave is bicycle theft.

This colonial city in the Yucatán Peninsula consistently ranks as Mexico’s safest large city, and after spending two weeks there, I understand why.

The crime rate of 34.12% is lower than virtually any American city you can name. I felt safer in Mérida than I do in my own Nashville neighborhood.

Why Mérida is incredibly safe:

• Strong community policing and neighborhood watch culture
• Low unemployment thanks to a thriving economy
• Far from cartel routes (geography matters)
• Traditional values where locals look out for visitors

The city attracts tons of expats and retirees for a reason—it’s peaceful, affordable, and genuinely welcoming to solo female travelers.

Where to Stay: Rosas & Xocolate Boutique Hotel + Spa is a converted 1920s mansion that feels like staying in a wealthy friend’s home if your friend had impeccable taste in antiques and a world-class spa.

The chocolate-themed suites (yes, really) start around $250/night, and the rooftop pool overlooks pastel-colored colonial buildings. It’s intimate, luxurious, and perfect for solo travelers who want personalized service.

• Best Time to Visit: November-March (avoid the brutal summer heat)
• Budget: $ (most affordable on this list)
• Perfect For: Mayan ruins day trips, cenotes, colonial architecture, foodies

Book Mérida Hotels | Best Mérida Tours

6. San Miguel de Allende

Crime Rate: 35.22% | Expat Haven

San Miguel de Allende has more American expats per capita than almost anywhere in Mexico, and there’s a reason for that: it’s safe, beautiful, and feels like stepping into a fairytale.

I met solo female travelers in their 70s who’d been living there for years, walking home from art galleries at night without a care.

The crime rate of 35.22% is incredibly low for a popular tourist destination.

The biggest “crimes” are overpriced art galleries and too many Instagram influencers clogging the streets for that perfect shot of the pink Parroquia church.

What makes San Miguel exceptionally safe:

• Large expat community means English-speaking resources everywhere
• UNESCO World Heritage status brings serious security funding
• Small-town atmosphere where strangers stand out
• High tourism dependency motivates intense safety measures

Where to Stay: Rosewood San Miguel de Allende transformed a 1700s manor house into the most luxurious property in town.

The rooftop bar overlooks the iconic pink church, rooms feature handcrafted tiles and fireplaces, and the spa uses local healing traditions.

At $500-900/night, it’s splurge-worthy, and solo travelers appreciate the intimate size (only 67 rooms).

• Best Time to Visit: Year-round (high altitude means comfortable temperatures)
• Budget: $$ (getting expensive due to popularity)
• Perfect For: Art galleries, hot air balloons, cooking classes, boutique shopping

Book San Miguel Hotels | Best San Miguel Tours

7. Puebla

Crime Rate: 48.33% | Safe Historic Center

Puebla doesn’t get enough credit. Located between Mexico City and Oaxaca, this colonial city offers the same beautiful architecture as San Miguel but with way fewer tourists and better prices.

I wandered the historic center for days, popping into Talavera pottery shops and baroque churches, never once feeling unsafe.

The 48.33% crime rate is moderate, but it’s concentrated in outskirts you’ll never visit. The centro histórico where tourists spend time is heavily patrolled and genuinely safe.

Plus, Puebla’s proximity to Mexico City means it gets overlooked by international travelers—which keeps it authentic and affordable.

Why Puebla works for solo travelers:

• UNESCO historic center with strong police presence
• Day trip distance from Mexico City (easy to reach)
• Authentic experience without tourist crowds
• Amazing food scene (birthplace of mole poblano)

Where to Stay: La Purificadora is a converted water purification plant (sounds weird, tastes amazing) turned minimalist luxury boutique hotel.

Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the city, the rooftop pool is a hidden oasis, and rooms start around $200/night—affordable luxury.

The design-forward aesthetic attracts creative types and solo travelers who appreciate style over traditional fancy.

Best Time to Visit: September-November (after rainy season, perfect weather) Budget: $ (very affordable) Perfect For: Puebla Cathedral, food tours, Talavera pottery, Cholula pyramids

Book Puebla Hotels | Best Puebla Tours

8. Oaxaca City

Crime Rate: 44.67% | Safe for Food Lovers

Oaxaca stole my heart.

This is where I ate my way through mercados, took mezcal distillery tours, and walked home alone at night clutching bags of tlayudas and never once looked over my shoulder.

The crime rate of 44.67% sounds higher than it feels because Oaxaca’s “crime” is mostly petty stuff in areas tourists don’t visit.

The centro histórico and surrounding neighborhoods where you’ll spend your time are safe, welcoming, and filled with Indigenous culture that’s been preserved for centuries.

Why Oaxaca is great for solo female travelers:

• Strong community culture means locals look out for visitors
• Food-focused tourism attracts chill travelers, not party crowds
• Walkable historic center that’s easy to navigate
• Indigenous traditions create respectful, safe atmosphere

Where to Stay: Quinta Real Oaxaca occupies a 16th-century convent and manages to feel both historic and luxurious.

The former chapel is now a restaurant serving elevated Oaxacan cuisine, rooms surround peaceful courtyards, and the location puts you steps from Santo Domingo church.

At $250-400/night, it’s mid-range luxury that solo travelers love for the intimate scale.

• Best Time to Visit: October-April (dry season, Día de los Muertos in November)
• Budget: $ (affordable with some splurges)
• Perfect For: Mezcal tastings, cooking classes, Monte Albán ruins, textiles

Book Oaxaca Hotels | Best Oaxaca Tours

9. Bacalar

Crime Rate: 29.18% | Lowest Crime Rate

Bacalar is Mexico’s best-kept secret, and with a crime rate of just 29.18%, it’s statistically the safest destination on this list.

This tiny town on the lagoon of seven colors is so chill that the biggest excitement is deciding which cenote to swim in.

I spent a week in Bacalar and never locked my bike. Not once. That’s the vibe—laid-back, nature-focused, and so safe that locals laugh when you ask about crime.

Why Bacalar is incredibly safe:

• Tiny population (under 15,000 people)
• Nature tourism focus attracts peaceful travelers
• Geographic isolation far from cartel routes
• Everyone knows everyone small-town mentality

Where to Stay: Rancho Encantado isn’t flashy luxury—it’s authentic eco-luxury on the lagoon.

Private casitas have hammocks overlooking the water, kayaks are included, and the farm-to-table restaurant sources everything locally.

At $180-280/night, it’s affordable luxury that feels like a friend’s gorgeous lake house. Perfect for solo travelers wanting peace and nature.

• Best Time to Visit: November-April (avoid summer heat and mosquitoes)
• Budget: $ (mid-range)
• Perfect For: Lagoon swimming, cenotes, kayaking, digital nomads, relaxation

Book Bacalar Hotels | Best Bacalar Tours

10. Izamal

Crime Rate: Data unavailable, but extremely low | Small Town Safety

Izamal is so safe and so small that crime statistics don’t even exist, and that tells you everything.

This entire town is painted bright yellow (seriously, everything), and the vibe is sleepy, friendly, and impossibly charming.

I rolled into Izamal on a Sunday afternoon and immediately felt like I’d traveled back in time.

Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop through cobblestone streets, locals chat in doorways, and the only “danger” is getting sunburned while exploring the Franciscan monastery.

Why Izamal is perfect for nervous first-timers:

• Smallest town on this list means maximum safety
• Day trip distance from Mérida (already super safe)
• Family-friendly atmosphere throughout
• Zero nightlife means zero late-night safety concerns

Where to Stay: Hacienda Santo Domingo is the only real luxury option in tiny Izamal, and it’s more “charming colonial elegance” than “five-star resort.”

The renovated hacienda has 12 rooms surrounding a courtyard pool, serves home-cooked Yucatecan food, and feels like staying with a wealthy aunt.

At $120-180/night, it’s affordable luxury in a town with few hotels.

• Best Time to Visit: November-March (avoid heat, visit during Izamal’s festivals)
• Budget: $ (very affordable)
• Perfect For: Mayan ruins, horse carriage rides, monastery, photography, day trips

Book Izamal Hotels | Best Izamal Tours

11. Cabo San Lucas

Crime Rate: 44.50% | Secure Resort Areas

Los Cabos (Cabo San Lucas + San José del Cabo) gets a bad rap because of Baja California Sur’s reputation, but the reality is way different.

The resort corridor where tourists stay is heavily secured, gated, and patrolled. I felt completely safe wandering between resorts and beach clubs.

Yes, the overall crime rate is 44.50%, but that’s concentrated in areas you’ll never visit.

The hotel zone and downtown tourist areas have security comparable to Las Vegas, with cameras everywhere, private security, and a massive financial incentive to keep tourists safe.

I’ve written extensively about navigating Los Cabos safety in my dedicated guide, including which areas to avoid and how to travel safely between towns.

Why Cabo works despite higher stats:

• Resort security rivals any destination globally
• Private beaches with controlled access
• Tourist police patrol downtown and Marina areas
• World-class infrastructure built for international travelers

Where to Stay: The Resort at Pedregal is the most exclusive property in Cabo—you drive through a private tunnel in the mountain to reach it.

Perched on the cliffs where the Pacific meets the Sea of Cortez, this Forbes Five-Star resort offers private plunge pools, butler service, and a spa carved into the mountainside.

At $800-1,500/night, it’s a splurge, but solo travelers report feeling like celebrities with the personalized attention.

• Best Time to Visit: October-May (avoid hurricane season)
• Budget: $$-$$ (one of the priciest destinations)
• Perfect For: Whale watching, golf, sport fishing, beach clubs, luxury resorts

Book Los Cabos Hotels | Best Los Cabos Tours

12. Queretaro, Mexico

Crime Rate: 41.22% | Safe Colonial City

Querétaro doesn’t show up on most tourist lists because it’s primarily a business and industrial hub—but that’s exactly why it’s safe.

This colonial city has a thriving economy beyond tourism, which means lower crime rates and authentic Mexican culture without the tourist crowds.

I spent a week in Querétaro and loved how normal it felt. No one was trying to sell me stuff, no one treated me like a walking ATM, just a beautiful colonial city going about its day.

Why Querétaro is underrated for safety:

• Strong economy means lower crime motivation
• UNESCO historic center with colonial architecture
• Business travelers require high safety standards
• Close to Mexico City but way safer overall

Where to Stay: Hacienda Jurica by Brisas is a 16th-century hacienda turned luxury hotel with sprawling gardens, a chapel, and equestrian facilities.

It feels like staying on a private estate, with rooms starting around $150/night, incredible value for this level of historic luxury.

Solo travelers love the quiet, refined atmosphere away from party scenes.

• Best Time to Visit: Year-round (temperate climate)
• Budget: $ (affordable)
• Perfect For: Wine country day trips, colonial architecture, Peña de Bernal hike, authentic culture

Book Querétaro Hotels | Best Querétaro Tours

13. Acapulco

Crime Rate: 71.23% | Improving but Exercise Caution

Let me be straight with you: Acapulco has had serious safety problems.

The crime rate of 71.23% is the highest on this list, and I’m including it with major caveats because the city is actively working on a comeback.

The Acapulco of the 1950s, when Hollywood stars partied in clifftop villas, is trying to return. New security measures, tourism investment, and infrastructure improvements are making some areas safer.

But you need to be strategic about where you go and when.

If you visit Acapulco:

• Stick to hotel zones (Las Brisas, Diamante)
• Never go downtown after dark
• Take only official hotel taxis
• Stay in large resorts with private security

I’m including Acapulco because I believe in second chances and because some travelers specifically want to visit for nostalgia or the cliff divers. Just go in with eyes wide open.

Where to Stay: Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués in the Diamante zone is where you’ll want to stay if visiting Acapulco.

This ultra-luxury resort has 24/7 security, private beach, and all-inclusive options so you never need to leave the property if you don’t want to. At $400-700/night, it’s pricey, but security is baked into the cost.

Solo travelers should absolutely stay in gated resorts here.

• Best Time to Visit: November-April (avoid rainy season)
• Budget: $ resort areas, $ outside (but don’t stay outside)
• Perfect For: Cliff divers, nostalgic trips, all-inclusive resorts, old Hollywood history

Book Acapulco Hotels | Best Acapulco Tours

14. Loreto, MX

14. Loreto – Baja’s Best-Kept Secret

Crime Rate: Nearly Zero | Safest Hidden Gem in Mexico

Loreto is the Mexico destination nobody’s heard of, and that’s exactly why it’s so damn safe.

With a population under 20,000 and crime statistics that barely register, this Sea of Cortez fishing village is where locals leave their doors unlocked.

I’m not exaggerating when I say Loreto has virtually zero violent crime.

According to multiple sources, there are no records of assaults, kidnappings, or shootings targeting tourists.

The only crime you’ll hear about is the occasional home burglary when properties sit empty for months and even those are rare.

After walking the Malecón at night, kayaking to islands alone, and exploring downtown without a single moment of concern, I understand why expats flock here.

Loreto feels like Mexico did 30 years ago, before Instagram, before party crowds, before anything got complicated.

Why Loreto is exceptionally safe:

• Geographic isolation far from cartel routes and major cities
• Eco-tourism focus attracts nature lovers, not troublemakers
• Tight-knit community where everyone knows everyone
• Marine park protection (UNESCO World Heritage Site status)
• No nightlife scene means no late-night safety issues

The Loreto Bay National Marine Park draws divers, kayakers, and whale watchers, not the Cabo party crowd.

I cover Loreto’s safety evolution, marine park adventures, and island-hopping logistics in my dedicated Is Loreto Safe?

Where to Stay: Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto is the only true luxury resort in the area, and it’s spectacular.

This 4.5-star property sits on 4,447 acres of pristine coastline with direct access to Danzante Bay.

The five interconnected pools form the shape of a sea turtle (visible from above), the 39,000-square-foot Sabila Spa rivals any resort globally, and the TPC Danzante Bay golf course is ranked among Mexico’s best.

Rooms start around $250-500/night for all-inclusive packages,

• Best Time to Visit: October-May (perfect weather, whale watching season December-March)
• Budget: $ (affordable luxury compared to Cabo)
• Perfect For: Snorkeling, whale watching, kayaking to islands, sport fishing, digital nomads seeking peace

Book Loreto Hotels | Best Loreto Tours

Are Solo Female Travelers Safe in Mexico

The updated Mexico travel warning advised visitors to avoid certain areas, and many travelers have been advised to reconsider travel to Mexico as a precaution.

While it’s always intelligent to heed travel warnings and be cautious when exploring new places, you shouldn’t let these keep you from visiting Mexico.

Instead, you just need to be more careful when choosing your vacation destination especially if you’re a solo female traveler in Mexico.

Do your homework before traveling to Mexico. 

Before you set off for your trip, research the place you’re planning to visit.

Find out the exchange rate, customs restrictions, and visa requirements. 

Also, research their public transportation system, which neighborhoods you should avoid, safety precautions, local emergency contacts to save on your phone, etc.

Look up their local customs and traditions so you can carry yourself accordingly.  Show as much respect to the local culture as possible when traveling to another country. 

Trust your Instincts & Street Smarts

When you’re traveling alone, it’s crucial to stay cautious and read situations in an instant. If something feels off, walk away from that place or person immediately. 

You and your needs matter when traveling solo, so trust your gut.

You’ve every right to change hotels, get out of a cab, fly to a different city, or walk away from someone or someplace if you feel like something is off.

Avoid walking with your head buried in your phone, as this is a green light for criminals regardless of destination.

High-tech devices appeal to petty thieves and draw attention to your traveler status. Foreign women, especially, are perceived as easy targets. Keep your phone and cash out of sight.

Always carry a photocopy of your identification in case the police stop you. Keep the real deal locked up in a safe back at your hotel.

Let your bank know when you are traveling so they don’t cut off your funds, and check your account when you return for any suspicious activity.

Avoid carrying a lot of cash, withdrawing small pesos from ATMs, and withdrawing money at night. 

While most crime against women in Mexico is either drug/gang-related, if you use common sense, Mexico is not any more dangerous than the U.S.

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Don’t open your room door unless you know/trust the person
• Under no circumstances disclose where you are staying to a stranger
• If you are invited to a party/event, always imply that you will bring someone along and let a friend, or even the receptionist at your accommodation, know your whereabouts. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t go
• Avoid traveling at night or wandering around in poorly lit areas and beach locations
• If you’re traveling alone and aren’t confident exploring a place, join a tour. Aside from the safety aspect, it’s a great way to meet fellow travelers
• While it’s sporadic, women travelers have reported drink-spiking in bars/clubs, on public transport, and even at the beach.

Research the neighborhood you are staying in, and ask the locals where the no-go areas are.

As much as the cheap places per night are great for your bank account, make security your priority when choosing your accommodation.

Renting a Car in Mexico: Should You Do It?

I’ve rented cars all over Mexico, and here’s my honest take: it’s amazing for road trips but totally unnecessary for city stays.

When to Rent a Car

I’ve rented cars all over Mexico, from Cabo to Cancun, and I’ll be honest. It can be incredibly convenient, but it is not always the easiest option.

Having your own car gives you the freedom to explore beaches, small towns, and restaurants you would never reach on a tour.

At the same time, driving in Mexico comes with different rules, required insurance, and situations that can feel stressful if you are not prepared.

For some trips, renting a car in Mexico makes sense. For others, hiring a private driver is the better move. I have done both.

Private drivers are common in popular destinations and take the pressure off navigating unfamiliar roads, dealing with parking, or worrying about checkpoints.

This option is especially appealing if you plan to drink wine, visit multiple stops in one day, or simply want a more relaxed experience.

Whether you decide to rent a car or hire a driver, the key is knowing what to expect before you arrive.

Understanding insurance requirements, costs, and safety considerations can make the difference between a smooth trip and a frustrating one.

My Non-Negotiable Rules

1. Buy full insurance – Mexican law requires it, and your US credit card won’t cover you. Expect $40-80/day total.
2. Video everything before driving – Document every scratch with timestamps or they’ll charge you for existing damage.
3. Stick to toll roads – They’re expensive but well-lit and patrolled. Never drive free roads at night.
4. Watch gas station attendants – Take a photo of the pump at zero. PEMEX scams are real.
5. Police checkpoints are normal – Be polite, have documents ready, never offer bribes.

Don’t get White Girl Wasted.

 It might seem obvious, but getting blitzed drunk while you’re traveling alone is a big no-no.

I always make sure that I limit my alcohol consumption to two drinks and make sure that I have transportation back to my hotel to avoid being a target on the streets at night. 

Remember all these tips, and you’ll have a blast visiting these safe cities in Mexico for your next vacation. Remember, Mexico is safe as long as you use common sense.

My Personal Opinion on Mexico’s Safety

As I stated, in the beginning, Mexico was a country that was rich in food, culture, music, and history. Do not allow the media to scare you into missing your blessing. 

While warring drug cartels have resulted in an increasingly higher-than-normal murder rate and violence, Mexico is safe, just like most U.S. cities that have higher-than-normal crime rates.

The travel advisory is in place for a reason. Still, the locals are amiable in Mexico, so if you’re traveling alone, you should easily be able to find a few locals to hang out with when you need company. 

If you’re looking for a great spot to visit in Mexico as a lady traveling alone, you can’t go wrong with Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen, and Oaxaca City.

As you can see, there are plenty of safe spots to explore in Mexico – even if you’re a woman traveling alone.

Whether you prefer to make friends with other travelers as you explore your destination or truly enjoy your independence as you explore, you’ll worry less about safety. 

Use your common sense and make sure you purchase travel insurance.

Travel insurance is one of those things that you probably won’t use but is essential.

If something goes wrong on your travels, like when I got extremely sick in the Czech Republic, the one time I didn’t purchase insurance, lesson learned!

Let your friends and family know where you will be traveling so that if something happens, they will know where you are staying and what you are doing that day.

If you’ve previously traveled solo, you’ll find Mexico an easy-to-navigate 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.

Mexico Travel Insurance

I can’t say this enough, but please get insurance when traveling to Mexico! Even if you only go on a short trip, you should always travel with insurance.

Have fun while visiting Mexico, but take it from someone who has racked up thousands of dollars on an insurance claim before you need it.

Make sure to get your insurance before you head off on an adventure! I highly recommend Travelex Insurance.

Travel insurance is one of those things you probably won’t use, but is essential.

If something goes wrong on your travels, like when I got extremely sick in the Czech Republic, the one time I didn’t purchase insurance, you’ll wish you had it. Lesson learned!

Final Thoughts: Safest Places in Mexico You Must Visit in 2026

Mexico is safe. Not every part, not for every activity, but the 14 cities in this guide? Absolutely.

Bad things can happen anywhere, including in your hometown.

I’ve had my car broken into in Memphis, been followed in New York, and dealt with sketchy situations in supposedly “safe” American cities.

Yet somehow, Mexico gets all the fear-mongering headlines from the media,

My top recommendations for where to go in Mexico alone as a woman:

1. First-timers: Start with Mérida or Puerto Vallarta, established infrastructure, low crime, and easy to navigate
2. Beach lovers: Tulum, Huatulco, or Loreto offer different vibes, but all rank among Mexico’s safest beach towns
3. Culture seekers: Oaxaca City and San Miguel de Allende blend safety with authentic Mexican experiences
4. Adventure seekers: Bacalar and Loreto provide nature-focused travel with minimal crime

Can you travel to Mexico alone as a woman? Yes, I travel to Mexico safely every year, and the key is choosing safe cities, using common sense, and ignoring fear-based media coverage.

Want more Mexico safety guides? Check out:

• Is Mexico Safe? Complete Travel Warning & Safety Guide
• Is Cancun Safe?
• Is Tulum Safe?
• Is Puerto Vallarta Safe?
• Is Los Cabos Safe?
• Is Loreto Safe?

• Book travel insurance through Travelex
• Pack smart using my Mexico packing list

Do travel warnings affect your decisions about visiting Mexico? Have you traveled solo to any of these safe Mexican cities?

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