Tulum, Mexico
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Tulum.
La Veleta is the newest and cheapest neighborhood in Tulum. Digital nomads and long-term travelers stay here. It has coworking spaces and a tight-knit community but is still being built out and far from the beach.
This is Tulum's newest and cheapest neighborhood, which is why digital nomads and long-term travelers end up here. Construction is constant as buildings go up, making it feel raw and unfinished compared to Aldea Zama next door. The vibe is bohemian with coworking spaces like Digital Jungle, yoga studios, Gypsea Market for health food, and new cafes opening all the time. People here usually stay for weeks or months, not a quick vacation. You'll see more locals mixed in than at the beach or Aldea Zama. The community is tight-knit - everyone seems to know each other after a few weeks. English is less common than in Aldea Zama or the beach zone, though it's improving as more international businesses open. Generally safe with good foot traffic, but stick to main streets at night like in Centro. You're further from the beach here and amenities are still developing, so you'll bike or take colectivos a lot. Good choice if you want to be part of Tulum's expat community rather than just the tourist scene.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
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"Good community feel, easy to meet people"
"Way cheaper than Aldea Zama or the beach"
"Coworking spaces have decent WiFi"
"Still being built - some areas look unfinished"
"Fine during the day, stay on main streets at night"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Pueblo has the budget accommodations, local restaurants, and all the practical stuff like bus stations and supermarkets. It's safe during the day and much cheaper than the beach zone, but you need to be more aware of your surroundings at night.
The beach zone has the boutique hotels, expensive restaurants, and beach clubs that Tulum is known for. It's pricey and Instagram-focused but feels safe. Works well if you're into wellness and yoga or don't mind paying extra to be near the water.
Aldea Zama is a planned residential area between Pueblo and the beach with modern infrastructure and good safety. It has coworking cafes and costs less than the beach zone but more than downtown. Works well for digital nomads staying longer term.
Help other women stay safe in La Veleta
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.