Background and the Bubble
After our pilgrimage to Our Lady of Guadalupe, followed by our practical guide, and book review of Guadalupe and the Flower World Prophecy, we received questions from several pilgrims about safety, particularly for women traveling solo. Mexico City does have a reputation for crime.
Mexico City (CDMX) is a dangerous city, in certain parts. But, we have dangerous cities in the US as well. For example, according to the statistics, Saint Louis is five times more dangerous than Mexico City. (CDMX, STL)
Just as if we traveled to Saint Louis, we believe that taking precautions can minimize the danger and allow a pilgrim to enjoy this extraordinary Marian shrine. The key is creating what we call a “bubble of security” around your pilgrimage — allowing you to focus entirely on your encounter with Our Lady while maintaining prudent safety measures.
The idea of the “bubble of security” came from John’s experience on business travel to less-than-savory parts of the world. He had a driver meet him at the airport, drop him at a 4-star hotel, pick him up, and drive him to the office. He never left this “bubble,” thus minimizing the chances of an unfortunate confrontation.
Planning Your Pilgrimage
- Consider a companion or joining a group pilgrimage. There is safety in numbers. We wrote this blog post with the single traveler (especially female) in mind, but there is no doubt that traveling as part of a group is safer.
- Share your itinerary with trusted family or friends, including hotel, flight, and daily plans. Send them a message each day.
- Register with the US Embassy in Mexico City through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (link). This allows the embassy to send you safety alerts, contact you in case of emergency, and provide you with information. Put the US Embassy number into your phone contacts prior to departure (regular: +55 5080 2000, emergency + 55 8526 2561)
- Create a contact for the CDMX tourist police, Policía Turística (+55 5658 1111, non-emergency). For emergencies, use 911.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
- This map of Mexico City shows the crime rate by neighborhood. Most of the violent crime happens in the areas shown in red and yellow. The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is located about three miles north of the Morelos neighborhood (shown in red near the top of the map). We recommend staying in one of three locations: Histórico Central, Coyoacán, or Polanco.
- We stayed in the Historico Central Hotel in the central region. This was a safe hotel with features such as a 24-hour front desk, concierge to help arrange travel, and food/drink so we did not need to leave the hotel. They also provided a 3-hour walking group tour showing the Aztec heritage, architecture, and several Catholic churches.
- We try to book a room on the second to fifth floors. Off the ground floor for safety, and low enough to be able to evacuate in case of emergency.
- We also tend to keep the Do Not Disturb sign on the door at all times. While we miss the maid service cleaning the room, it also gives a sign that the room is occupied.
Mobile Phones in Mexico City
- Being able to communicate is vital. Unless you are fluent in Spanish already, learning the basic travel phrases beforehand is useful. Also, pre-installing a translation app, like Google Translate, is important for conversations beyond the basics. The translation app is amazing; it will translate your English into Spanish in real-time, but it does take practice to speak clearly and without pauses. Practice before leaving the US.
- The three major mobile phone carriers in the US (AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon) provide seamless service in Mexico City. Your plan may require an upcharge, which is generally more expensive than an international SIM, but it’s very easy and worth it for a short visit to Mexico. Of course, check with your provider to verify coverage.
- If you don’t have data access already, consider an International SIM. We’ve had good experiences with Airlo. This allows you to communicate, use maps, etc, without having to rely on WiFi.
Taxis in Mexico City
- Upon arrival at Mexico City’s airport, use only official taxi services or pre-booked transfers. Avoid street taxis entirely — this isn’t about being unfriendly, but about maintaining that protective bubble around your pilgrimage. Your hotel should be able to provide transport from the airport ahead of time.
- We used Uber extensively. It works very well in Mexico City. Lyft is not available. DiDi is an alternative for rideshare, but I already had an Uber account.
- Uber has several features that enhance security. First, you will be able to see the driver’s profile and vehicle. Seeing that our driver had over a thousand rides with a 4.8-star rating gave some level of confidence that he was legit. We verified that his picture matched his profile, the car matched the description, and the license plate also matched.
- During the ride, we tracked our progress using Google maps to ensure we were on the right route. Also, one time the traffic was impossible so the driver took a detour. The Uber app gave a notification about the discrepancy and asked if we were safe. That was a neat feature.
- If not using Uber, arrange transport with your hotel. They will provide a reliable taxi. You might also consider hiring a car for the day, so your driver waits for you. We spent about four hours in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, in case you want to plan the time for the driver to pick you up.
- Always have your hotel address, written in Spanish, handy to show to drivers. This eliminates confusion and demonstrates that you are prepared.
- I would not ride the bus or subway. We learned the subway has a separate car just for women because of the harassment they receive in the crowded train. The crowded bus is also an opportunity for pickpockets.
Don't be a Target
- Dress as you would for any church visit — modestly and respectfully. This isn’t just about reverence for Our Lady; it also helps you blend in with other pilgrims rather than standing out as a tourist. Avoid flashy jewelry (even a diamond engagement could draw a criminal’s attention), designer bags, or obviously expensive items.
- Carry only what you need for each day, leaving extras securely at your hotel. Use a money belt or hidden pouch for important documents and larger bills. Take photos of your passport and other important papers and store them separately from the originals.
- I keep smaller bills and coins in one pocket, so I don’t show the larger bills when paying for incidentals, tips, etc. Also, have a backup credit card and cash in a separate wallet.
- Pickpockets love crowds and distractions. Be extra wary in these situations.
- Understand that personal space norms may differ from what you’re accustomed to at home. Mexican crowds, particularly at religious sites, can feel closer and more animated than you might expect.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases for emergencies: “Ayuda” means “help,” “¿Dónde está la policía?” means “Where is the police?” and “No hablo español” means “I don’t speak Spanish.” Even these simple phrases can be helpful.
A Mother's Protection
Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to Juan Diego as a loving mother, wrapping him in her protective mantle. As you prepare for your pilgrimage, trust that this same maternal protection extends to you. Combine this faith with prudent planning, and you’ll find yourself free to encounter Our Lady in the profound, transformative way that only pilgrimage can provide.
Your pilgrimage to Our Lady of Guadalupe awaits. With proper preparation and a heart open to grace, you can experience the joy and transformation that countless pilgrims before you have discovered at this most sacred site.
Safe travels, and may Our Lady of Guadalupe intercede for you on your journey.
