Is Mexico City Safe For Solo Female Travel?

If you’re like me, you’ve likely heard people say that Mexico is unsafe to travel to, especially as a solo female traveller. People may even try to dissuade you from going on your trip. Recently I travelled to Mexico City for the first time, and was travelling alone. Here I’ll share how I felt in terms of safety while I explored the #1 most populated city in North America.

What the people may say

When I expressed interest in visiting Mexico City, people around me had two reactions. The first, “You’re going there? That place is so dangerous! You’re going to go missing.. or worse, be found dead. You’re going alone? Even worse. You shouldn’t go!” The second, “Wow, cool! I’d love to go too!” Believe it or not, the second reaction was very rare. Why do people think Mexico is so unsafe? It’s true that the Latin American country has crime, poverty and corruption, but… so does EVERY country! I knew this, but the amount of people trying to discourage me from visiting la Ciudad de Mexico gave me pause, and definitely got into my head. I wasn’t about to cancel my trip, but I did have some concerns.

Throughout my two weeks in CDMX, I never once felt unsafe or concerned. Yes, I received catcalls or looks for being a blonde tourist, presumably, but it wasn’t scary. I played it safe. I didn’t go out alone at night to areas that I didn’t know or that were darkly lit. I didn’t walk down alley ways. I never got drunk, and I rode in Ubers most of the time. I usually was in my rental by 9pm at night. If you’re a solo female travel looking to visit Mexico’s capital city, do it!

Will my phone work?

If you have an unlocked phone, go to any OXXO (there’s one in the airport!) and ask for a local SIM card for your phone. OXXO is like a 7-11, a convenience store chain that often is open late and has many locations. With your new SIM card, you will get a Mexican phone number and the ability to add data or minutes. This was essential for me, as I could always have data to call an Uber, look up directions or text a friend. The plan I bought allowed international roaming to Canada and the US, so I actually kept my Mexican number for awhile after returning to Canada. When you need to add more data or minutes, head to any local OXXO. If you have a phone plan at home that allows international roaming, that’s also an option.

What is the safest way to get around?

People I know who had lived in CDMX all told me that Uber ride service was the safest way to get around. Unlike in most other cities, Uber is very cheap. So being cheap, fast and safe, I took Uber most often. The drivers are identity verified. On the contrary, everyone told me NOT to take taxis off the street. Horror stories emerged of women going missing when they took the pink taxis. I never tried one, so I can’t speak to the contrary. Better safe than sorry!

There is a large metro train network throughout CDMX. This is by far the cheapest way to get around, at only five pesos (30 CDN cents) a ride. There are specific cars at the back of the train that are for women and children only. Every time I took the train, I rode in these cars, although local women often sit in the mixed cars as well. I always felt safe riding the train.

Another fun way to get around: ECOBICI! This is a bike rental service that lets you unlock and use traditional bicycles and electric bicycles, and return them to many different stations across the city. It’s very convenient. I signed up for one week of the service and often used it for shorter trips or to explore areas. I tried to bike in quieter areas or bike lanes because there are lots of cars on the road, but it wasn’t always possible to avoid busy roadways. The bikes do not come with helmets.

What are the safest areas to stay in?

La Condessa and Roma are two of the nicest areas of the city, and also great places to stay as a solo female traveller. They both boast many cute cafes, clothing boutiques, restaurants and parks. Use a reputable booking site such as Booking.com or AirBNB to find a place to stay. These sites have honest customer reviews, competitive pricing and great custom service.

Can I run outside alone?

Before I jetted off to CDMX, I was searching the internet for an answer to this question. I came across a few recommendation for areas where I could run, including Parque Mexico and the surrounding Calle Amsterdam. The first time I ventured out for a run, I headed to this area. It was true, the street was filled with runners and cyclists. As a bonus, on Sundays the large Avenue Paseo de la Reforma is closed to vehicles and becomes a huge thoroughfare for running and cycling.

I also ran down the middle of Avenue Alvaro Obregon in the Roma area. This busy street has a separate pedestrian walk way running down the middle, as do many streets in the colourful city. I never felt unsafe while running alone outside. However, I did feel winded by the elevation and pollution. These things take getting used to, so be warned that you may not want to run your usual 20km’s! If you feel uneasy, stick to populated areas during the daytime for your runs. You may choose not to use headphones.

Will the food and water make me sick?

Do not drink the water from the tap before running it through a water purifier. You may choose to just buy bottled water as well. Because the water is unfit to drink, fruits and vegetables washed in the water may also make you sick.

Whenever you travel to a new corner of the world, the food and drinks will differ from what your body is used to. Know this when you try new things! Eating street food is a must-do for many travellers, but you may want to ease into it, especially if you eat meat. I ate whole papaya’s most days for breakfast and never felt sick.

Can I enjoy the nightlife alone?

When I travelled solo to Mexico City, it was still under restrictions due to Covid-19, and nightclubs were not open. Therefor, I cannot speak to this question, but I would say that if you’re drinking alcohol alone, be very careful no matter which city you’re in. Always watch your drink, only accept drinks from the bartender, and limit your alcohol intake. Drink water in between alcoholic beverages to lessen the effect, and spread your drinks out over time. Basically, try not to get drunk. This is one of the easiest things you can do for your own safety.

What should I wear?

Mexico City is rather conservative when it comes to fashion. People usually wear long pants no matter what the weather. I love wearing shorts, so I stuck out in my shorts and sandals, but I was comfortable. If you want to blend in, pack long pants and closed toe shoes. Tank tops and bare arms are more commonly seen than bare legs or feet. Even in August, the area would get cold overnight but heat up by 10am, so pack accordingly. I actually bought a winter jacket in Mexico City since I didn’t have anything warmer than a sweater. Be prepared for the sun with sunglasses such as these and for the flash rains with a collapsable umbrella.

What If I don’t speak the language?

As mentioned in my other post, try to learn a bit of Spanish before you arrive. Although some people will be able to speak English, most do not, or prefer not to use it. Basic words surrounding greetings, ordering food and getting around will be very helpful. You can always default to showing your translation app to the person you’re trying to speak with, but it comes off as more respectful to at least try Spanish. Phrases like “I need… [Yo necesito…]”, “Do you have…? [Tienes…], “I want…[Quiero…]” are very handy. Also phrases such as “Where is the bathroom?” [Donde está el baño?], “The check, please” [La cuenta, por favor], “My name is…” [Me nombre es…] will be much needed.

Get excited about your trip!

Mexico City is a vibrant, loud, pulsating city full of energy and colours. The people are friendly, the food is tasty, the living is quite cheap, and there’s so much to do. If you’re like me, you’ll fall in love!! Have you visited La Ciudad, or are you planning a trip? Leave me a comment below!