👋🏼 Hola! My name is Trisha and I live in Mexico! I do my Oaxaca solo female travel twice a year and in this guide, I will give you all the details you need to know to prepare for your trip!
📬 Hi Trisha! I followed you on Instagram during Oaxaca day of the dead. Your stories are amazing and it made me think about visiting Oaxaca! I’ve only been to Cabo and in 2022, I am going to visit more of mainland Mexico. Do you have any tips on how to effectively navigate Oaxaca female solo travel? Is Oaxaca safe for solo female travelers? I am going to Puerto Escondido after so it would also be great if you can give me a sample itinerary. Thank you so much for all your tips and advice. I really appreciate it!
– Joan McLain, USA
I did not think twice when I planned my first Oaxaca solo female travel. After seeing those photos on Pinterest and Instagram, without a doubt, I booked a ticket and took care of the Oaxaca travel questions later (i.e. safety).
But there was a pitfall for not questioning and not planning. My first Oaxaca travel experience was really bad because I did not know it was the rainy season. I visited at the end of August to early September and guess what? I spent most of my days indoors because of the rain!
Not to mention that was 2020 and you know, there was a global health crisis that was taking place. Everything was closed.
Bottom line: August and September are not good months to visit and that, honestly affected my first impression of Oaxaca Mexico.
I felt like it was a waste of money and I did not see anything but the co-working space of my hotel. In April, I came back again with different weather and from there, my love story with Oaxaca Mexico started. I don’t even know where to begin to tell you what made me so drawn to Oaxaca because there are so many layers and forms!
From that trip, I came back every year and I even organize my yearly day of the dead trips here to show travelers how Oaxaca Mexico is rich in everything.
Many of my friends ask me, why don’t you just move to Oaxaca if you are that in love and visiting frequently? I couldn’t answer this til now but one thing I know is that I love the feeling of going back and knowing the city in its entirety.
For now, it is just a great feeling to come back and who knows? I might leave my home in Cabo now and trade it for Oaxaca!
Planning a solo trip to Mexico?
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🇲🇽 TRIP PLANNER 🏄🏽 EXPERIENCES 🛏️ Accommodations ✈️ Flights 🚗 Rental car 🛜 E-SIM 🚑 InsuranceWhat’s covered in this solo female travel guide:
Is Oaxaca Solo Female Travel Safe?
Yes, Oaxaca City is safe for solo female travelers. I travel to Oaxaca every year alone and no bad thing has happened to me. However, in many instances, I have witnessed friends who had bad experiences (like theft). Other than that, I did not hear or have seen anything major.
A big plus for me is that I am fluent in Spanish. I learned that from traveling all 32 states of Mexico, it is way easier if you speak their language. Sometimes, they don’t even ask where I am from – they automatically speak to me in Spanish!
Which absolutely means I do not feel different in this city. In the next sections of this Oaxaca solo female travel guide, I will give you more tips about safety and how to not look like a tourist in Oaxaca so keep browsing!
👉🏼 Related: How Safe Is Oaxaca For Women Travelers?
Oaxaca Solo Female Travel Planning
3 months is a good time for planning your Oaxaca solo female travel. Since you are going to do this alone, you can even plan 6 months ahead, especially if you plan to join the Day of the Dead festivities. Here’s a helpful timeline for your solo trip planning:
3 months before the trip:
- Book your flight (see cheap flights to Oaxaca here)
- Research safe neighborhoods and accommodations with positive reviews for solo female travelers (check this map of accommodations in Oaxaca center)
- Check visa, passport, and travel insurance requirements for Mexico
2 months before the trip
- Reserve your stay (consider areas like Santo Domingo or Jalatlaco)
- Plan your itinerary (see things to do in Oaxaca for ideas)
1 month before the trip:
- Arrange local transportation (pre-book Airport Transport here)
- Learn basic Spanish phrases and local safety tips
2 weeks before your trip
- Confirm all bookings and share your itinerary with a friend or family member
- Prepare a packing list including safety essentials and local currency (see packing list below)
1 week before your trip:
- Download offline maps and local language tools
- Recheck transportation options for arrival and departure
Day of the departure:
- Keep a local SIM card handy
- Stay alert, follow your planned route, and share your location with someone you trust
✈️ 💃🏽 I’ve spent 16 years traveling the world on my own, learning the ins and outs of planning trips that are bold, safe, and unforgettable. If you’re ready to design your own adventure, I can help you map it out with clarity and confidence. Book a call today, and let’s plan the journey you deserve!
BOOK A CALL WITH TRISHA →
Best Months for Oaxaca Solo Female Travel
Part of planning your Oaxaca solo female travel is timing. It is very crucial to know that the best time to visit Oaxaca is from November to April. In July, the famous Guelaguetza Festival takes place but it is also the rainy season.
In November, the famous day of the dead celebrations take place where I take 15 solo female travelers on a group trip!
During my first Oaxaca, solo female travel I went from August to September and it was not a good choice. It rained all the time and there were also thunderstorms! Which absolutely meant it became a staycation and I spent most of the week in the hotel.
Oaxaca Weather RIGHT NOW
OAXACA WEATHEROaxaca SIM Card or Mexico E-SIM
If you are traveling alone as a woman in Oaxaca, a Mexican SIM card is a must. The first option is to pre-order a Mexican SIM card which will be sent to your home in the US/Canada. You can buy it on Amazon but it takes about a week to deliver.
That’s already pre-loaded with 2 GB data so you don’t have to deal with top-ups. If you decide to buy it when you arrive Oaxaca, you can go to any Oxxo convenience store. The only issue is if you don’t speak Spanish, you will have to deal with cashiers who do not speak English.
The third option is to get an E-SIM for Mexico, which you can also use in your next solo female travel adventures. It works in any countries and there’s no physical SIM card to be inserted in the phone.
👉🏼 Read Next: 3-5 Days Oaxaca Itinerary For Solo Female Travelers
Oaxaca Solo Female Travel Accommodations in Safe Areas
Before you book any accommodations in Oaxaca, I will give you a short introduction about the neighborhoods in Oaxaca. Oaxaca City has a unique vibe in each of its neighborhoods, and choosing the right one can really make your solo adventure memorable.
Safe Neighborhoods for Oaxaca Solo Female Travel
Here are my recommended areas for solo female travelers to Oaxaca. All these areas are safe but choose depending on your travel style.
- Centro/Zócalo: Choose this neighborhood if you crave lively energy. Centro/Zócalo puts you steps from historic sites, vibrant plazas, and impromptu street performances.
- Santo Domingo: Choose this neighborhood if you prefer cultural experiences. Santo Domingo offers colonial charm, intimate mezcal tastings, and artful galleries tucked around its iconic church.
- Jalatlaco: Choose this neighborhood if you enjoy creative vibes. Jalatlaco reveals colorful murals, quirky coffee spots, and craft markets that feel like a hidden gem.
Hostels for Oaxaca Solo Female Travelers
I only stay in hostels in Oaxaca City when I am on short trips. This way, I can meet other travelers and join organized events. Many of them offer both shared dorms and private rooms. There are also female-only dorms but I do not mind mixed dorms.
My favorite hostel in Oaxaca is Viajero Oaxaca Hostel (dorms from $10) and I sometimes get a private room here for $65 per night, depending on the season.
🛏️ SEE ALL HOSTELS IN OAXACA CITY →
Boutique Hotels for Oaxaca Solo Female Travelers
Sometimes, I stay in Oaxaca for 30 days (I made it as my base for my Oaxaca road trip). In this regard, I stay in a hotel or a vacation rental home. They are not that expensive and they are very comfortable!
My favorite is Nana Vida Hotel Oaxaca. It’s really close to historic landmarks and I don’t need to take a taxi when I am staying here!
🏨 SEE ALL BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN OAXACA CITY →
Use this map to find the best accommodations in Oaxaca's safest areas, for as low as $75 per day! The location is set in Oaxaca Zocalo but you can choose the area on the map to find the best deals!
Transportation Guide for Oaxaca Solo Female Travel
How to get to Oaxaca City
Oaxaca has one International Airport called Xoxocotlan Airport. It has direct flights from the USA and Canada (Delta operates this flight).
Mexico City to Oaxaca
There are two ways to get to Oaxaca from Mexico City:
- By bus (from $27): You can book a bus ticket at ADO. The travel time is 6-7 hours and the bus is super comfortable. Take the night bus so you can save on accommodations in Mexico City and you won’t have to waste time!
- By plane (from $100): You can also fly to Oaxaca from Mexico City. Aeromexico operates this flight. The travel time is 1 hour.
How to get to Oaxaca Centro from the airport
Centro means center in Spanish. You will see this destination on Google Maps so be aware of the term. The easiest way to get to the city center from Oaxaca International Airport is by pre-booking a taxi service. I always book my airport taxi service with these guys. I’ve known them from doing countless Oaxaca solo female travel!
🚕 BOOK OAXACA AIRPORT TRANSFER →
Other ways to get to the center from Oaxaca International Airport include:
- Public Bus: After collecting your luggage, walk about 10 minutes to the bus stop along “175 Highway.” Grab a ticket (about 8 MXN/~$1 USD) and hop on a bus that drops you near Bustamante and Francisco Javier Mina Street. It’s cheap and a great way to see local life.
- Shared Shuttle: Look for a shuttle booth right outside the terminal. Purchase a ticket for around $10 USD. This van picks up several travelers and drops you off directly at your hotel—usually a 55-minute journey with a friendly group vibe.
- Rental Car: Head to the rental car counters inside the airport. After picking up your vehicle, use GPS to drive the 10.5 km (around 30 minutes) to Oaxaca City, giving you freedom to explore along the way. I have rented many times with Europcar but you have to pre-book since they always run out of cars.
Getting around Oaxaca alone
Oaxaca solo female travel transportation is easy because you don’t have to do much. The trick is to always book a hotel near the center. For all my solo trips to Oaxaca, I did not spend money on transportation unless I am going out to the city.
Here are some safe ways to get around Oaxaca City alone:
- Walking: The historic center is compact and lively. Stroll the narrow alleys and vibrant plazas, but use a reliable offline map and stick to populated routes, especially after dark. (Cost: Free)
- Public Bus: Buses run along popular routes for about MXN 8–15 per ride (roughly $0.50–$1 USD). They offer a real taste of local life—just keep your purse secure and verify stops with fellow passengers.
- Colectivos (Shared Vans): Ideal for reaching attractions like Monte Albán. Prices average MXN 20–30 (around $1–$2 USD). Ask your hostel for trusted colectivo stands and opt for daytime rides.
- Taxis/Ride-Hailing: Use official taxi stands or book via your hotel for safe rides. Short trips cost roughly MXN 80–150 (about $4–$8 USD). Confirm fares before departure and share trip details with someone you trust.
- Bike Rentals: Rent a bike for roughly MXN 100 per day (about $5 USD) to explore well-traveled, bike-friendly areas. Always wear a helmet and stick to well-lit streets.
Every great trip starts with a plan—make sure TRAVEL INSURANCE is part of yours!
Things to do in Oaxaca for Solo Female Travelers
Before we start the list of the best things to do in Oaxaca alone, I would like to invite you to my day of the dead trip for women in November! If you are already planning to travel to Oaxaca solo, you should do it during day of the dead!
Here are the best things to do in Oaxaca alone. Some of these are organized tours so you will definitely meet fellow solo travelers!
🎊 Bonus: Use the code PSIMONMYWAY10 to get a 10% discount on all Oaxaca experiences below.
Stroll the colorful markets of Oaxaca City
Oaxaca has a colorful lively market vibe and you don’t even have to pay for anything. Strolling is FREE! Here are the best markets you shouldn’t miss in Oaxaca:
- Benito Juarez Market in Oaxaca City is a bustling hub where local life comes alive. Here, you can wander among colorful stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional foods. Sample snacks from street vendors while chatting with locals eager to share insider tips. Browse aisles of textiles, cheeses, and regional specialties that capture Oaxaca’s flavor.
- Mercado 20 de Noviembre is a lively food-focused market that bursts with flavor. Stroll its narrow lanes lined with small eateries offering delicious Oaxacan dishes like tlayudas, tamales, and spicy mole. It’s the perfect spot to experience authentic street food and glimpse the local heart of Oaxaca.
- Mercado Abasto is a massive, bustling market on the outskirts of Oaxaca City, overflowing with a diverse range of goods. Roam endless stalls selling vibrant fruits, vegetables, spices, and fresh local meats. Explore quirky items like handmade crafts, household wares, and traditional clothing.
- Mercado IV Centenario is a charming market in downtown Oaxaca bursting with traditional flavors and crafts. Stroll past lively stalls offering fresh cheeses, homemade bread, and local delights like chapulines. The market also features unique artisan goods and souvenirs.
- Mercado de Artesanias is a must-visit artisan market in Oaxaca. Wander stalls full of vibrant handmade pottery, embroidered textiles, and carved wooden alebrijes.
Teotitlán Textile Workshop
Visiting a textile workshop in Teotitlán del Valle is like stepping into a living tradition. Local artisans use natural dyes and handwoven techniques passed down for generations. You’ll see how wool is spun, dyed with plants and insects, and woven into stunning rugs.
Mezcal Tour in a Palenque
A mezcal tour in Santa Catarina Minas is a must if you want to understand Oaxaca’s most famous drink. You’ll visit a family-run palenque, where mezcal is made the traditional way—slowly roasted agave, stone-ground, and distilled in clay pots.
You’ll taste different varieties, learn how flavors change with different agave types, and hear stories from passionate mezcaleros. This is my favorite experience in Oaxaca and I’ve done it 3 times!
✅ VIEW MEZCAL TOUR DETAILS HERE
Visit Monte Albán
Monte Albán is one of the most impressive ancient ruins in Mexico, sitting high above Oaxaca with breathtaking views. Walking through its plazas and pyramids, you’ll learn about the Zapotec civilization that thrived here for over a thousand years.
The carvings, tombs, and ball courts tell fascinating stories of the past. Whether you explore with a guide or on your own, it’s an unforgettable experience that blends history, nature, and stunning scenery.
✅ HIRE AN ENGLISH-SPEAKING GUIDE FOR MONTE ALBAN
Oaxaca Street Food Tour
Oaxaca’s street food is legendary, and a food tour lets you dive right into the best local flavors. You’ll taste tlayudas (Oaxacan-style pizzas), memelas, tamales, and even chapulines (crunchy grasshoppers). Markets like Mercado 20 de Noviembre are packed with sizzling grills and friendly vendors eager to share their specialties.
It’s the perfect way to experience Oaxaca’s food culture, meet locals, and discover dishes you might not have tried on your own.
Oaxaca’s Artisan Route
Oaxaca’s artisan villages are full of incredible handmade crafts. In San Bartolo Coyotepec, you’ll find black pottery with a glossy finish. Teotitlán del Valle is famous for its woven rugs, while San Martín Tilcajete is home to colorful alebrijes (wooden animal carvings).
Visiting these workshops lets you see artisans at work, hear their stories, and even try making something yourself. It’s a great way to support local artists and take home a truly special souvenir.
✅ HIRE A PRIVATE GUIDE FOR THE ARTISAN ROUTE
Ancestral Cooking Class in Oaxaca
Join an ancestral cooking class in Oaxaca to discover the secrets of traditional local recipes. You’ll start by exploring a buzzing market to pick up fresh produce and unique herbs. Then, a friendly local chef will show you step-by-step how to cook classic dishes like mole and handmade tortillas using age-old techniques.
You get to chat with the chef, learn cool cooking tricks, and taste your own tasty creations. It’s a hands-on way to experience real Oaxacan food and meet new friends.
✅ JOIN A GROUP FOR OAXACA COOKING CLASS
Visit Hierve El Agua
Plan a day trip to Hierve El Agua, a stunning natural spot outside Oaxaca. Here, you’ll see amazing rock formations that look like frozen waterfalls and cool mineral pools perfect for a refreshing dip. Enjoy a fun hike along easy trails with brilliant views of the valley and mountains.
Tip: Hierve El Agua is often combined with Tule & Mitla so you can visit 3 places in one day (optional).
✅ HIRE A DRIVER FOR HIERVE EL AGUA TRIP
Visit the best museums in Oaxaca City
Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca (Santo Domingo): This museum is a real gem set inside an old convent. You’ll see pre-Hispanic artifacts, colonial art, and displays that tell the story of the local history. The entrance fee is usually around $3.50 to $4. Consider renting an audio guide for fun details and extra context. Don’t miss the peaceful courtyard—it’s a great spot to sit, relax, and snap some photos!
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca (MACO): If modern art is your thing, MACO is the place to be. You’ll find a range of rotating exhibits featuring local and international works in a lively setting. Entrance is about $1.50 to $2.
Museo Textil de Oaxaca: For a closer look at Oaxaca’s rich craft traditions, head to Museo Textil. You’ll see beautiful handwoven textiles, learn how natural dyes bring fabrics to life, and hear stories behind intricate patterns. The entrance fee is roughly $2.50.
Catrina Make-Up Experience
The Catrina make-up is usually more popular during day of the dead but if you are going to travel to Oaxaca outside the festival dates, you can still do the Catrina Make-Up! The make-up artist is available all year round and you can just hire a photographer separately. I can recommend some great photographers!
✅ BOOK CATRINA MAKE-UP SESSION HERE
Money Handling for Oaxaca Solo Female Travel
Use ATMs in Oaxaca wisely by choosing machines located in secure, busy spots like bank lobbies or popular retail stores. Do not take cash in any ATM.
📍 Locations of safe ATMs in Oaxaca: Santanter | BBVA Bancomer | Citibanamex
Currency exchange in Oaxaca is best done at reputable banks or licensed exchange offices to get fair rates. Avoid exchanging money on the street where deals may look tempting but are risky. You can change US dollars (or any currency) in the locations I shared above.
Just note that you have to enter the bank to exchange USD and they close at 4:00 PM. It’s best to go to the bank at 9 AM (no people or no line since Mexicans start the day late).
Using credit cards in Oaxaca is easy. Many restaurants, hotels, and shops accept Visa or MasterCard, though some smaller vendors only take cash. I used cards in most restaurants and shops but cash is still king with street food and other vendors.
Handling tipping in Oaxaca is all about enjoying local hospitality while being fair. In restaurants and cafes, a 10% tip is usually enough for good service; for exceptional service, you can go up to 15%.
At taxis, tipping isn’t expected unless the driver helps you with bags or stays extra friendly. For street vendors or small services, rounding up the bill works well.
Cultural Etiquette for Oaxaca Solo Female Travel
As my quest to becoming Mexican continues (I am getting Mexican citizenship!), I make sure to adhere to the local customs and take Oaxaca solo female travel with attunement, mutual respect, and boundaries. Here are some tips on how to blend in Oaxaca as a tourist:
- Avoid Loud Conversations and Flashy Behavior: Oaxacans are warm but not overly loud in public. Keep your voice at a normal level, especially in restaurants or markets. Avoid speaking English loudly in crowded areas, as it can make you stand out as a tourist.
- Ask Before Taking Photos: Many locals value their privacy and cultural moments. Always ask permission—especially when photographing indigenous people or ceremonies—to show respect and avoid uncomfortable situations.
- Enjoy Friendly Greetings, But Keep It Polite: Use simple Spanish greetings like “hola” or “buenos días” when meeting locals. Keep your tone friendly but respectful, and avoid oversharing personal details until you know someone better.
- Avoid Aggressive Haggling: Bargaining is part of the shopping culture in markets, but keep it light and friendly. Over-haggling or a hostile tone can be seen as disrespectful, so aim for a fair, relaxed negotiation.
- Stay Alert to Unwanted Advances: In busy tourist spots, some may approach with overly familiar behavior. If someone’s pushy or makes you uncomfortable, politely say no and move on. Trust your instincts and seek help from your accommodations if needed. (YOU NEED A SIM CARD!)
- Keep Valuables Discreet: Wearing flashy jewelry or carrying lots of cash can attract pickpockets or unwanted attention. Use a small, secure bag and keep expensive items out of sight to stay safe and respectful to the local vibe.
- Be Mindful During Cultural Events: Festivals and celebrations are deep-rooted cultural experiences. Avoid interrupting rituals or engaging in loud debates on sensitive topics. Instead, observe, ask thoughtful questions, and show genuine interest without coming off as invasive.
- Handle Art and Crafts with Care: In local markets, ask before you touch handicrafts or textiles. Artisans take great pride in their work, and a little courtesy shows real respect.
- Follow Home Customs: If you’re invited into someone’s home, be observant. Some families might ask you to remove your shoes, or share a quiet greeting—this small gesture goes a long way. Many families will welcome you with a mezcal shot. If you don’t drink, politely refuse.
- If they insist you drink: If someone insists, politely repeat your response with a smile. Keeping your tone warm yet firm reinforces your boundary while showing you appreciate the offer. I say one thing only, repeatedly: “no, gracias, I’m good.”
- Pitch In Respectfully: In rural areas, the spirit of “tequio” (community work) is common. If you’re ever invited to help, show your interest and offer assistance without overstepping.
- Dress Modestly at Sacred Sites: When visiting churches or indigenous rituals, opt for clothing that covers shoulders and knees. This respectful style helps you blend in and honors local customs.
- Be a Good Listener: Oaxaca is full of stories and traditions. Listen more than you speak during cultural conversations—this shows you genuinely value what locals share.
What to Pack for Oaxaca Solo Female Travel
One tip to blend in Oaxaca and not look like a tourist: dress like the locals do. Oaxacans tend to dress casually but modestly. Avoid flashy outfits, short shorts, or overly revealing tops, especially in traditional areas.
Also take note that Oaxaca is a colorful city so if you are going to take a lot of photos, neutral colors look better in a colorful background. Here are some of my year round packing list for Oaxaca:
- Lightweight Tops and Blouses: Pack a variety of lightweight tops and blouses to keep you cool while exploring Oaxaca. Choose breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen for daytime adventures in markets, museums, and busy streets.
- Versatile Bottoms (Pants, Jeans, and Leggings): Bring a selection of comfortable bottoms ideal for the varied activities in Oaxaca. Pack a couple of pairs of lightweight pants, jeans, and leggings that are perfect for long walks along cobblestone streets and visits to ancient ruins.
- Layering Pieces (Light Jackets and Cardigans): Since the weather in Oaxaca can change, layering is a must. Include a light jacket or cardigan that serves as an extra layer during chilly mornings and cool evenings. This piece also acts as a respectful cover-up at religious sites when needed.
- Casual Dresses and Skirts: Add a couple of casual dresses or skirts to your wardrobe for days when you want to keep it effortlessly stylish. Choose breathable, modest dresses that are perfect for city sightseeing, visiting cultural sites, or enjoying a relaxing meal at a local café.
- Lightweight Scarves and Cover-Ups: Pack one or two lightweight scarves or cover-ups that double as stylish accessories and functional garments. Scarves are a great way to add a pop of color to your outfits and can be wrapped around your shoulders when visiting religious sites or local communities.
Social Connections for Oaxaca Solo Female Travel
- Join my yearly day of the dead tours: I do my day of the dead tours every year (for 15 people only) and most of the participants of my tours are solo travelers! If it’s your first time to visit Oaxaca, this can be a good warm-up for you to be comfortable traveling here. It will be a week of fun and we will do many local things that are beyond the travel guides. We will also be joined by my local friends in Oaxaca whom you’ll surely get along with!
- I can introduce you to my local friends in Oaxaca! If you can’t join my day of the dead tour, I can connect you with my friends (Mexicans, Americans, Canadians, and Europeans) in Oaxaca. I understand that when traveling alone in a foreign city, you may feel more comfortable by knowing people there. Just get in touch with me via Instagram or Tiktok and I’ll hook you up!
- Join Oaxaca Social Meet-Ups on Whatsapp: Ian, a good friend of mine who is living in Oaxaca started this cool Whatsapp group called Oaxaca Social Meet-Ups. Not only that you can meet people here to hang out (or do tours with) but they announce daily happenings and events in the city. Most of the members here are locals and are very generous with information. This group helps me a lot with just about anything!
Oaxaca Solo Female Travel Scams
Here are some specific scams to watch out for in Oaxaca City, along with precise tips on how to spot and overcome them:
- Taxi Overcharging Scam: In tourist-heavy spots like the Centro, some drivers refuse to use the meter and quote inflated fares (sometimes double the standard rate). Always agree on a fare before stepping in or use trusted apps/rideshare services. Ask your hotel for a recommended taxi service.
- Unofficial Money Exchange Scam: Street exchangers may lure you with great rates but then shortchange you or hand over counterfeit pesos. Only exchange money at banks or official exchange bureaus. Check posted rates on reliable sources and count your cash immediately.
- Pickpocket and Distraction Scam: In crowded markets or during busy events, a distracting act—like an overly friendly local—may be used to divert your attention so an accomplice can steal your belongings. Keep your purse zipped and close, use an anti-theft bag, and be wary of sudden commotions around you.
- Overpriced “Tour Deals” Scam: Some vendors advertise unbelievably low-cost tours to popular sites but then tack on hidden fees or force stops at overpriced shops. Research and book tours through your accommodation or reputable agencies. Always ask for a written itinerary with clear pricing details.
- Fake “Helpful Local” Scam: You might encounter someone offering free guidance who then subtly directs you into a shop or service where you’re pressured to overspend. Politely decline unsolicited advice if it seems too tailored toward a purchase. Use trusted maps or ask for recommendations from official tourist information centers.
Helpful Spanish Phrases for Oaxaca Solo Female Travel
Here’s a handy table of useful Spanish phrases for solo female travelers in Oaxaca. These phrases can help you navigate, interact, and feel more confident while exploring:
| Spanish Phrase | English Translation | Context/Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Hola, ¿cómo estás? | Hello, how are you? | A friendly greeting to start a conversation with locals. It’s perfect for meeting people when you enter shops, cafes, or markets. |
| ¿Dónde está el baño? | Where is the bathroom? | Essential for when you’re out and about. Use this phrase in restaurants, markets, or public places when you need to find the restroom. |
| ¿Cuánto cuesta? | How much does it cost? | Use this phrase when shopping at markets or small stores to ask for the price of an item. |
| No, gracias | No, thank you | A polite way to decline extra offers or additional services you don’t need, whether it’s an upsell at a shop or extra portions at a restaurant. |
| ¿Puedes ayudarme? | Can you help me? | Useful if you need directions or any kind of assistance around town from locals or taxi drivers. |
| Estoy perdida | I’m lost | Say this if you lose your way. It lets people know you need help finding your way back. |
| Habla más despacio, por favor | Please speak more slowly | Perfect for when someone is speaking too quickly for you to understand. It ensures you get the information you need without any confusion. |
| ¿Dónde puedo tomar un taxi? | Where can I get a taxi? | Use this when you’re seeking directions to the nearest taxi stand or asking for advice on the safest way to book a ride in the city. |
| Lo siento, no hablo español muy bien | I’m sorry, I don’t speak Spanish very well | This is a humble way to let someone know you’re still learning. It often encourages locals to speak slowly and help you out. |
| Una cerveza, por favor (or Una bebida, por favor) | A beer, please (or A drink, please) | Handy when ordering a refreshment at a bar or café. It shows basic etiquette while you enjoy a local drink with new friends or during a relaxed meal. |
Safety Tips for Oaxaca Solo Female Travel
Below are five safety tips in Oaxaca City for solo female travelers:
Tip 1: Plan Your Routes and Stick to Busy, Well-Lit Areas
When exploring Oaxaca City, planning your route ahead of time is key. Before you head out, check a reliable map app and ask your hostel or hotel for recommendations on which streets are safest. Stick to well-known, busy areas—especially in the evening.
For example, the downtown zone around the Zócalo stays lively even after dark, so it’s a smart area for night walks. Avoid shortcuts through deserted alleys or poorly lit spots for peace of mind. Let a friend or family member know your plans and your return time.
Tip 2: Choose Official Transport and Avoid Street Scams
When using taxis in Oaxaca, always opt for official taxis arranged through your hotel or a trusted service rather than hailing one off the street. Check that the taxi’s meter is running and confirm the fare before starting your ride. Keep expensive bags or gadgets out of sight while waiting and never flash your cash.
Only take yellow taxis (avoid white) and use the Didi app for ordering taxi online. Uber does not work in Oaxaca.
Tip 3: Keep Your Belongings and Information Safe
While exploring Oaxaca City, it’s smart to secure your valuables. Wear a crossbody bag with hidden zippers, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Keep your phone, wallet, and passport in compartments that are hard for pickpockets to reach.
Leave expensive accessories and extra credit cards in your hostel’s safe. Use a lock on your luggage and a money belt under your clothes in busy areas. Always double-check that your bag is zipped and secure before moving on.
Tip 4: Keep In Touch and Share Your Itinerary
When traveling solo in Oaxaca City, staying connected is key for your safety. Get a local SIM card as soon as you land and use messaging apps to check in with friends or family. Always let someone know your daily plans and the time you expect to return.
Share details of your hotel address and the routes you plan to take, especially if you venture off the beaten path. Set up regular check-ins—like sending a quick text when you reach a new spot.
Tip 5: Enjoy Nightlife Wisely and Stay Alert
When you’re out enjoying Oaxaca City at night, especially as a solo traveler, be extra cautious. Stick to well-lit, busy spots and choose reputable bars or restaurants recommended by local friends or your hostel staff. Avoid leaving your drink unattended and keep your phone securely in a pocket.
If joining a group outing or bar tour, make sure you travel with a reliable buddy or join a trusted group. Plan your route back to your hotel in advance and only use official taxis or ride-share services for your ride home. Always trust your gut feeling and steer clear of any situations that feel off.
Ready to plan your solo trip to Oaxaca? If you have any questions about Oaxaca solo female travel, leave a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as possible!
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This is a super-comprehensive guide for any woman planning their first solo trip to Oxaca! I do speak Spanish so I am happy to know it helps!
Great guide! Oaxaca has been on my list for a while, and your solo travel tips make it feel so much more approachable. Thanks for sharing your experience!
This is such a comprehensive guide!
Wow this is great comprehensive guide to Oaxaca for anyone not just female travellers.
Wowza, that post was really crammed full of helpful info! I looove thesound of your day of the dead tour, but everything in Oaxaca, sounds great. I can see why you fell in love with it.
I really appreciate your tips about interacting with locals in a sensitive way as well. 🙂
I often stay in boutique hotels or guest houses when traveling solo, so appreciate your recommendations.
I visited Oaxaca 20 years ago, and I’m dying to go back! Thank you for sharing your personal experiences traveling solo in Oaxaca.
As a solo traveller, this post is extremely beneficial. I’ve been to Mexico numerous times, but never Oaxaca. I completely agree that learning a bit of Spanish is extremely beneficial. The locals are always eager to help if they see that you’re trying to communicate in their language
I really enjoyed this guide. Oaxaca has always been at the very top of my Mexico bucket list! It is so colorful and so full of the cultural experiences that I look for in Mexico. Hopefully I can spend a longer amount of time in Mexico so that I can experience Oaxaca at its best! Thanks for sharing.