Quito, Ecuador
Centro Histórico has colonial architecture and museums worth seeing, but timing is critical. Visit between 9am-5pm when it's busy and policed, then leave before sunset. The area empties out and becomes unsafe after dark.
The Historic Center is a UNESCO site with colonial architecture, churches, and museums. During the day it's busy with locals, tour groups, and vendors around Plaza Grande and La Ronda street. Tourist police are around and the area feels safe between 9am-5pm when things are open. But timing matters a lot here. Once the sun sets around 6:30pm, vendors pack up fast, tour groups leave, and the narrow cobblestone streets get poorly lit and empty. The change from day to night is extreme. Even locals from other neighborhoods avoid walking here after dark. Visit museums, churches, and La Ronda during daylight hours. Have lunch at a cafe overlooking Plaza Grande. Leave before sunset. Take a taxi or Uber to dinner somewhere else like La Floresta or La Carolina. Don't wander down empty side streets even during the day, and keep your phone and camera secure around Plaza Grande where pickpockets work the crowds.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
PoorHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
ModeratePickpocketing Risk
HighScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
PoorSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
ModerateHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
Good"Beautiful during the day but scary at night"
"Tourist police were helpful and some spoke English"
"Pickpocketing is real - someone grabbed my phone in Plaza Grande"
"La Ronda is nice in late afternoon but leave before dark"
"Would only visit during peak hours, preferably with a tour"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
La Mariscal is the backpacker zone with international restaurants, tour agencies, and nightlife around Plaza Foch. Fine during the day but has real safety problems at night - pickpocketing, drink spiking scams, muggings. Only go out after dark in groups and use taxis.
La Floresta is the bohemian neighborhood with cafes, art galleries, and a creative crowd. Safe during the day and early evening. Eating alone is common, and the artistic vibe feels welcoming.
La Carolina is the modern business district with a large park, upscale dining, and good safety. Quieter at night and more expensive, but works if you want a calm, secure base.
Help other women stay safe in Centro Histórico
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.