Cali, Colombia
10 uncomfortable travel moments most of us run into at some point. Our guide shows you exactly how to respond to each one, so you never blank when it matters. Used by women from 50+ countries.
The historic district where most backpackers stay. Colonial streets, cafes, and hostels. Safe during the day for walking around. Take a taxi anywhere you go at night.
San Antonio sits on a hilltop with cobblestone streets and pastel colonial houses. The neighborhood draws backpackers, artists, and young travelers. During the day, people work on laptops in cafes for hours and eating alone is common. The plaza around Iglesia de San Antonio stays busy with tourists and families. Street vendors sell juice and empanadas. Some hostel staff and restaurant workers speak English since this is the main backpacker zone. Timing matters in San Antonio. During the day it's fine. Main streets near restaurants are reasonably safe until around 10pm while people are still out eating. But the steep residential side streets get empty and dark quickly. Most people take Uber to restaurants at night rather than walking through the neighborhood. It's a decent base for first-time visitors - just don't walk around after dark.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
ModerateHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
ModeratePickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
ModerateHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
GoodMost solo women learn the hard way how to handle situations that feel off. Our free guide gives you the exact words for 10 of them. Used by women from 50+ countries.
"The cafes are nice during the day but I took Uber everywhere at night"
"Main plaza felt okay when busy. Side streets empty out fast though"
"Good base if it's your first time. Lots of other backpackers in the hostels"
"Some people speak English which helps"
"Nice for photos during the day. Don't walk around alone after dark"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Dining area with varied restaurants at reasonable prices. More local atmosphere than Granada. Safe when busy but don't walk around late.
Student bar area with cheap drinks and local crowd. Fun with a group on busy nights. Not safe when empty or if you're alone.
Upscale area with rooftop bars and restaurants. Higher prices but better security than most of Cali. Safest option for going out at night.
Help other women stay safe in San Antonio
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.