Is Guadalajara Safe For Solo Female Travel? I Spent 30 Days Here and This Is My Experience

Is Guadalajara safe? That was my first thought before booking a trip, and trust me, I did my homework. From lively streets to quiet corners, here’s the real deal on safety—what to know, what to avoid, and how to explore worry-free.

📬 Hey Trisha! Love your blog and all your Mexico content! My boss will be sending me to a 3-day conference in Guadalajara in December. Though I think this is a good opportunity for my career and I really want to go, is Guadalajara safe? I want to stay a few more days as my work allowed me to do so but I don’t know if I am brave enough for it. Please encourage me with your convincing powers! Your thoughts are always very motivating and empowering. I’m torn right now!
– Andra McIntire, New York

Dear Andra,

Thanks a lot for your words. I really appreciate it! To be honest, I was a little freaked when I first went to Guadalajara, but upon arrival, I realized it is very manageable and fun! The city is super female-friendly and is very modern. I’ll provide more details below but I hope you won’t miss this opportunity, especially if your work will pay for the trip. You should check it out and stay a bit!

I stayed in Guadalajara for 30 days and loved it. It’s not a place where I will choose to live though – but for a visit, it is worth it! I still come to Guadalajara a lot since I just moved to Sayulita (4 hours away from the city). I have a car so I can always drive back. Good luck and I hope you’ll push through!

Xx,
Trisha

Is Guadalajara Safe?

I bet YES is a hard answer to believe due to the buzz of Narcos Mexico on Netflix. I didn’t follow the Cali Cartel season but when the Mexican version was added, I suddenly got intrigued. We’ve all followed Pablo Escobar’s life and the journey of Medellin Cartel on the show but how is the Mexican Cartel different?

If you’ve seen it and watched all the seasons, you probably wouldn’t think about visiting Mexico anymore, or at least the places that were highlighted there such as Sinaloa and Guadalajara.

If you haven’t seen it, well, let’s start with an introduction to Miguel Ángel Félix Gallardo, the man behind the Guadalajara Cartel formed in the 1980s. He controlled all the drug trafficking not only within Mexico but in the USA borders as well.

Miguel is from Sinaloa, and the show highlighted his life growing up in that state. But most of the series is set in Guadalajara Mexico, where he formed the strongest Mexican cartel in the ’80s. The show is violent and sometimes very graphic so by the time you finish the show, you will really feel like Mexico is a brutal country that shoots people on the street for no reason.

But we are missing the keyword ‘1980s’ here.

The day I checked in Guadalajara, my mom immediately freaked out and didn’t even give me the chance to tell her I was safe and was staying at a friend’s house. My friend is French and lives in Guadalajara. She was visiting family and friends in France when I visited so I had her house to myself.

She wasn’t there to tell me what to do or where to go. But she did warn me not to walk at night and that I should always take the Uber.

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Every great trip starts with a plan—make sure TRAVEL INSURANCE is part of yours!

Is Guadalajara Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

… so your experiences may be different from mine. I am lucky to have fell on the lap of my tapatio friends whom I met from my travels all over Latin America. Tapatio is the term for people who live in Guadalajara so if you want to sound like a local, use this word!

My point is our experiences may be different since I already knew people before traveling to Guadalajara alone. I must admit that I was kind of paranoid at the beginning because of what I read on the news. I almost did not travel to Guadalajara because of this.

My main motivation of visiting Guadalajara are my friends so this really gave me the confidence and I did not think twice. I am so glad I did not!

Speaking of tapatio friends, I noticed the difference on how men pay attention to you more when you’re alone and that goes for all destinations in Mexico. When I was walking with a Tinder date in Guadalajara, nobody even dared look. The same goes for when I am out with male friends.

I also feel like I was living in a great neighborhood so no one really cat-called me. If someone did, it was not as intense as my experiences in other parts of Mexico. Seriously, just ignore them.

I’m a digital nomad so I frequented many cafes in Guadalajara. Whenever I sit down in cafes, I surprisingly meet fellow digital nomads to hang out with. If you are traveling alone, you can just talk to bartenders (start with Cerveceria Chapultepec). They’re always friendly and are chatty with foreigners.

👉🏼 See also: Is Ensenada Safe For Women?

Is Guadalajara Safe For Dating Apps?

I did use dating apps in Guadalajara, both Tinder and Bumble. It can be safe, but like anywhere, it depends on how you approach it. I’ve certainly matched more with foreign visitors so as someone who knows Guadalajara well, I decided where to meet.

Some neighborhoods feel more secure, and I’ve found Colonia Americana, Providencia, and Chapalita to be the best spots for meeting dates. They’re lively, well-lit, and have plenty of reputable cafes, bars, and restaurants. Here are some places I’d suggest:

• SAFE – A trendy, highly rated venue in the Moderna neighborhood.
• Barceló Guadalajara – A polished hotel near Expo Guadalajara with great restaurants and bars.
• Guadalajara Plaza Expo – Near Plaza del Sol, offering a comfortable and safe space to meet.

I love how the Mexicans are so friendly but of course, if someone is attracted to you, it’s up to you to entertain that or not. I have no right to tell you or plant the idea to you that all men in Mexico will take advantage of you. In general, men have different behaviors everywhere. There is no generic behavior for men in Mexico or Guadalajara.

👉🏼 Recommended: Sayulita Solo Female Travel Guide

Is Guadalajara Safe At Night?

I’ve been told that it is though I never really pushed my luck. I’ve walked a lot of times by myself at night and did not find it scary. However, I only did this once or twice when I already have a grasp of the place.

When I already have this fixed route I was comfortable with, I did walk at night but I need to clarify that what I meant with ‘night’ is from 18:00 – 21:00 max. Beyond those hours, I always took the Uber because it’s really cheap!

My friend also lent me her bike and while I was riding to go work at a cafe in Guadalajara, one of the guys there told me that I shouldn’t also bike at night because there are many instances that bike riders were robbed (and probably hurt).

These are stories that I heard from locals while I was there. It didn’t happen to me so I really have no proof. But still, it’s great to be vigilant. On another note, I walked a lot with friends at night (even up to 2:00 in the morning). Guadalajara is a very walkable city and the weather is great so when you are with a group, walking in Guadalajara is fine!

Are Ubers Safe in Guadalajara?

Yes, I used Uber all the time in Guadalajara and nothing bad happened to me. I wouldn’t go in an Uber alone very drunk though. I would usually have someone drop me off (ride-sharing). My friends in Guadalajara also always insist they take me home. In instances I was alone, I made sure I was sober enough to get home.

Uber in Guadalajara is very cheap. Most of my 15-minute rides are about $50 MXN ($2.50 USD approx). The only time I paid $200+ MXN ($10 USD) was when I went to Tlaquepaque, about 30 minutes from Guadalajara.

The Uber app is widely used in Guadalajara so for your safety, do not go with normal/regular taxis. I am sure lots of regular taxis are good guys but whenever I am traveling, I am more comfortable in using taxi apps as they are more secure and it’s very easy to identify the humanity of the driver.

You can even share your current location to friends and families which is something you cannot do when riding a normal taxi.

Is Guadalajara Safer than Mexico City?

Without looking at the crime rate facts and basing it on my personal experience, I don’t feel like one is safer than the other. Mexico City’s Roma and Condesa areas are great neighborhoods that I always stay in. You can always walk at night without problems and there are many foreigners doing the same.

But if you go out of these neighborhoods, things are a little bit different. I’d never walk and I will always take an Uber if I am outside of Roma and Condesa.

In the same manner that Guadalajara’s main avenue, Avenida Chapultepec is as busy as Roma and Condesa areas, I feel very confident walking here by myself. There are lots of people here all the time and the streets are well-lit,

However, in other areas in Guadalajara, I will always take an Uber and not walk by myself at night. If I am walking by myself, I make sure I am with friends but a lot of people in Guadalajara told me that even with friends, it can be dangerous! I just didn’t have that experience so I can’t really speak about that.

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What Parts of Guadalajara Are Safe?

• Colonia Americana: This neighborhood has an artsy, laid-back vibe with tons of cool cafes, bars, and cultural spots. The streets are well-lit, and there are always people around, which makes it feel safe. Plus, there’s a decent police presence, so you won’t feel uneasy walking around.
• Providencia: If you like chill, upscale areas, Providencia is perfect. It’s super clean, has fancy restaurants, and feels very secure. There are private security guards around, and it’s not overcrowded, which makes exploring here really comfortable—whether you’re solo or meeting friends.
• Chapalita: Chapalita has a cozy, local feel—less touristy, but really safe and welcoming. The streets are quiet but well-lit, and it’s full of family-friendly spots and parks. It’s a great choice if you want a peaceful place without worrying about safety too much.
• Zapopan: Zapopan has a cool mix of modern shopping malls, universities, and cultural landmarks. Security is solid here, with local police making regular rounds. Plus, the locals are friendly, which makes it feel even safer. Whether you’re exploring or grabbing food, it’s an easy area to enjoy without worry.

USE THIS MAP TO SEE THE SAFEST HOTELS IN GUADALAJARA

Areas to avoid in Guadalajara, Mexico

Now, the safe areas above are based on my personal experiences. However, the state of Jalisco has issued a list of petty crimes in all the unsafe neighborhoods of Guadalajara. Surprisingly, Americana and Centro (that I told you I felt safe being in) are on the list of dangerous neighborhoods for petty crimes like theft (person-to-person), business theft, and vehicle theft.

No tourist crimes have been reported, but like anywhere else in the world, you should be vigilant with your things and not wear flashy jewelry. Sadly, most of my Mexican friends tell me that these petty crimes only happen to locals and not foreigners. Mexico has a way of protecting its tourism reputation since most of the country relies on tourism.

Here are some areas in Guadalajara that you might want to avoid, especially if you’re traveling solo or unfamiliar with the city:

• Analco: Analco has a lot of history, but safety-wise, it’s not the best spot for tourists. The area has a higher crime rate, and walking around at night isn’t recommended. If you’re looking for a historic neighborhood with a safer atmosphere, Tlaquepaque is a much better option.
• Want recommendations for safer spots to explore instead?
• Las Juntas: Las Juntas isn’t the safest place to wander around, especially if you don’t know the area well. It’s known for gang-related issues, and there aren’t many attractions that make it worth the risk. If you’re looking for a local vibe, there are safer neighborhoods with great food and culture.
• Oblatos: While Oblatos has some local markets, it’s not the best place for tourists. Petty crime is common, and it’s not the most well-lit or secure area at night. If you’re exploring Guadalajara, you’ll have a much better time in neighborhoods like Colonia Americana or Providencia.
• San Juan de Dios: This area is famous for its massive market, but outside of that, it can feel sketchy, especially after dark. Pickpocketing is common, and some streets aren’t well-patrolled. If you visit the market, go during the day, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid wandering into side streets alone.
• Lomas del Paraíso: This neighborhood has a reputation for being unsafe due to crime rates and gang activity. It’s not a place where tourists usually go, and there aren’t many attractions to make it worth visiting. If you’re looking for a safe and fun experience, stick to more central areas.

Guadalajara Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

I hope you won’t come to Guadalajara and spend your vacation worrying about Guadalajara safety. There is really nothing to worry about! Guadalajara is a fun city, especially for young travelers so do your best to enjoy it. The nightlife is very vibrant and there are always interesting people everywhere!

While I believe that no city in the world is 100% safe (you know, there are many petty crimes all over), I really feel like you can have a good time in Guadalajara if you know how to take safety precautions.

Just the let you know, the crime rate in Guadalajara is labeled ‘medium risk’ and is definitely has lower crime rates than Mexico City. Here are some tips for staying safe in Guadalajara as a solo female traveler:

• Don’t act like you are not from Guadalajara: Use local terms like tapatio and Mexican slangs like “wey.” Always look up while walking, say hola to everyone and don’t embrace your bag like you have a million dollar camera in it. Within a day of being in Guadalajara, you will already pick up local customs and you will be familiar with the layout. This will equip you in not looking like a tourist in Guadalajara. And don’t wear tourist hats!
• Transportation: Skip regular taxis—use Uber or Didi instead. They’re safer, trackable, and avoid sketchy drivers. If you take the bus, keep your bag in front of you and avoid rush-hour crowds. At night, always opt for rideshare over walking, even in safe areas.
• Where to Stay or Booking a Place: Look for hotels or Airbnbs with security staff and gated entrances. Avoid places with super cheap rates in unknown neighborhoods—it’s usually a red flag. If booking an Airbnb, check reviews for mentions of noise, break-ins, or safety concerns before confirming.
  ✅ SEE MAP OF SAFE AREAS IN GUADALAJARA
• Getting Travel Insurance: Make sure your policy covers medical emergencies, theft, and trip cancellations. Some plans exclude cartel-related incidents, so read the fine print. If you plan on doing adventurous stuff like hiking or biking, double-check coverage for accidents—some basic plans don’t include it.
  ✅ SEE TRAVEL INSURANCE PLANS
• Use a crossbody bag with a zipper: Pickpocketing happens, especially in crowded areas. A crossbody bag with a zipper makes it harder for thieves to grab your stuff. Bonus points if it’s small—less to carry, and you won’t look like a tourist hauling a giant backpack.
• Skip flashy jewelry: Guadalajara has amazing nightlife, but wearing expensive jewelry can make you a target. Keep it simple—minimal accessories mean less attention from potential thieves. If you really want to wear something nice, opt for pieces that don’t scream “high value.”
• Avoid empty streets at night: Even in safe areas, deserted streets can feel sketchy. If you’re walking late, stick to busy roads with open businesses. If a street looks too quiet, grab a rideshare instead—it’s worth the few extra pesos for peace of mind.
• Be cautious with drinks: Bars and clubs are fun, but drink spiking happens. Always watch your drink, and if you leave it unattended—even for a second—get a new one. If someone offers you a drink you didn’t see poured, politely decline.
• Do not buy drugs at all costs: Guadalajara has strict drug laws, and getting caught—even with a small amount—can land you in serious trouble. Beyond legal risks, buying from the wrong people can put you in dangerous situations. It’s just not worth it, no matter how casual the offer seems.
• Speaking Spanish helps a lot: I am Asian, but I am fluent in Spanish. I’ve observed how people treat you differently when you speak Spanish (as a foreigner). They give you respect and in their mind, you already know a lot about Mexico so nobody will dare fool you or take advantage. I’ve been living in Mexico for a while now and have picked up Mexican customs so I move like them. Guadalajarans are friendly and you just have to be open-minded about adapting.
• Get an eSIM for constant connectivity: Having an eSIM means you won’t have to rely on spotty Wi-Fi or hunt for SIM cards. It keeps you connected for navigation, rideshares, and emergencies. If something feels off or you need help, being able to call or message instantly is a huge safety advantage.
  ✅ SEE MEXICO E-SIM PLANS
• Consider your source: Guadalajara has a lot of bad press but think about it: how did you find this post? Why are you researching solo travel in Guadalajara? Something interests you about this city, correct? If you try to follow your gut and read thoroughly about Guadalajara, you will see how many people had been here without problems.
• I can connect you with friends in Guadalajara: Get in touch with me and I will introduce you to some locals and foreigners living in Guadalajara. I personally know them and they’re always happy to show people around!
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