When I first told my parents and friends I’d be spending 5 weeks backpacking through Mexico, I certainly got some mixed reviews. I heard several times, “Oh, be careful! It’s really dangerous now!” and other comments in the same vein. While Mexico is filled with amazing food, rich history and so much natural beauty, I did in fact hear several travel stories that would make your hair stand on end. I should lead with this: I had NO issues in Mexico and enjoyed my time immensely; HOWEVER, there were several other female travelers who encountered some shady issues. To that end, let’s all learn from their stories and not be idiots abroad. 😊 Check out this comprehensive guide for solo female travels in Mexico.
During my solo female trip to Mexico, I learned about the national ADO bus that transports locals and tourists alike between cities and along the coastline. Most backpackers use it as a low-cost alternative to flights and an easy way to travel without a car. You can book bus tickets on the ADO app in advance or just show up at the bus terminal and purchase the next available. I used these ADO buses to travel from Mexico City to Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido and then all throughout the Yucatan peninsula, including from Merida to Bacalar.
I had been told in Oaxaca by some fellow travelers that the buses from there through the central southern states to Palenque were not only uncomfortably long but often victims of pickpocketing and theft. As such, I decided to fly from Puerto Escondido to Merida. And I’m really glad I did, because I met two Dutch girls in the Yucatan who told me:
Mexico Travel Warning Story #1:
A Dutch solo female traveler took an overnight ADO bus through central southern Mexico to Palenque and several times during the night the bus would stop for “border checks.” Usually these were simple patrols checking for passports and goods while crossing between Mexican state borders. At 4:30 am they were stopped for one of these checks and all the foreigners were woken up and asked to exit the bus. There were about 8 of them. They were escorted to the back of the bus so that other passengers couldn’t see them from inside. They were then asked for 400 pesos each. All paid.
Mexico Travel Warning Story #2:
Another young solo female traveler was stopped one late afternoon by police officers in Palenque and asked to turn over her passport to check her visa. She had entered by land crossing and at the border told the agent she would need 40 days in the country. She got her passport stamped and started traveling through Mexico. When she was stopped in Palenque, she was about 30 days into her trip. The policeman told her the visa was expired and was only good for 20 days. She was escorted to jail and asked to make a “donation” to renew her visa and be released. She spent the night in jail, without a phone, and paid the requested funds.
Author’s Note: She was from the Netherlands and all Dutch passport holders can generally enter Mexico without a visa with a maximum stay of 180 days for tourism. I’m assuming the border control at the land crossing made an “error” with a 20-day visa stamp.
Don’t be an Idiot Abroad Travel Warnings
What did we learn? How can we better navigate Mexico safely and confidently? Here are some travel warning tips for Mexico.
Do Your Research
Before you embark on your journey, take the time to research your destinations thoroughly. Look into the local culture, customs, and safety tips specific to each area. Websites like Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor, and local travel blogs can provide valuable insights. It’s also helpful to join online forums or social media groups for female travelers to get firsthand advice and recommendations. When you are in the country and have some travel flexibility, be sure to ask fellow travelers for their advice. If you are in a politically charged country, it can be good to know up-to-date travel tips and warnings. If you are American, register with STEP before your travels to be alerted of country notices and travel warnings.
If you are traveling overseas for the first time, check out my post on the top travel tips for beginners!
Stay Connected
Ensure you have a reliable way to communicate. Get a local SIM card or an international e-Sim with Airalo, my favorite company for worldwide phone/data coverage. Right now, when you grab an e-Sim, you can save 15% on your first eSIM with code NEWTOAIRALO15 and 10% on your next eSIM with code AIRALOESIM10. Share your itinerary with friends or family and keep them updated on your whereabouts. Apps like WhatsApp and Google Maps are also invaluable for navigation and staying in touch with your support network.
For more information on international phone plans and the best ways to stay connected, check out my post here.
Use Trusted Transportation Options
Public transportation in Mexico can be convenient, but it’s essential to be cautious. When possible, use reputable transportation services such as Uber or local taxi apps like DiDi. If you need to use public buses, try to travel during daylight hours and choose routes that are well-traveled. For longer distances, consider booking flights. While the ADO bus was comfortable and quite popular, be aware of “no-go” zones for tourists and stick to buses that are shorter distances.
Check Your Visa Upon Arrival
Even if you already know the visa requirements for your country, be sure to double check any visa stamps received on arrival to make sure it matches your understanding. Research any entry fees or paperwork needed at the border.
Traveling solo, especially as a woman, requires preparation and awareness, but with the right mindset and precautions, Mexico can be one of the most enriching destinations you’ll ever visit. Check out some of my favorite activities in Mexico, including snorkeling with whale sharks and a tour of Chichen Itza.
Safe travels!
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All good advice, Mexico is not the USA.