You can tell by the presence of a CB and antenna, and usually a placard with a phone number and logo on it. Have your hotel call you one if you're unsure. Also, be careful about your final destination point on smaller buses. I've had folk try to convince me to get out at places I knew were miles from my destination. If the bus stops at a midpoint and everyone gets off, it's likely either a mechanical problem you'll have to wait out, or more likely a food stop.
Petty theft is more common than violent crime, but neither is unheard of.
Women travelling alone, especially overland or hiking are taking more risk that they probably should. PageWise makes no representations about the content published on this site. PageWise hereby disclaims all warranties and conditions with regard to this information, and user agrees that all such use is at its own risk.