However, it does have cartel activity, and crime is also a risk. The other category is petty crime and robberies. During the daytime, its mostly safe. WebMexico has a high risk of violent crime, such as murder, armed robbery, sexual assault and kidnapping. Best time to visit The best time to visit is between March and May or between September and November. People of various ages (from babies to 70 years old) have come to visit me there. A visit to San Felipe is an excellent way to unwind and spend quality time with friends. The National Institute of Security and Justice (INSEJ) maintains a database of crime statistics, and it has released a list of the safest Mexican cities. There are high rates of harassment, sexual assaults and violence targeting women in Mexico, including in major cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara, says Ruuska. For employees of the United States government, only certain areas of Mexico are permitted to travel: Tamaulipas, Veracruz, Tlaxcala, Zacatecas, and the greater part of Mexicos interior. The name Ensenada comes from the fact that it is located at the tip of the Pacific Ocean. Those who work for the U.S. government in the state of Hidalgo do not face any restrictions. According to When I returned, the beaches were closed for Semana Santa, but they were reopened three weeks later. Millions of travelers visit Mexico every year, and further growth is expected in 2022 following the lifting of border closures and restrictions imposed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, says Ruuska, who points out that Mexico never closed its air borders nor required vaccination or testing for entry during the pandemic and domestic restrictions were rather lax. Baja, Mexico is safe because the people are friendly and welcoming, and the crime although prevalent is usually petty. Be wary of attempts at credit-card fraud. Prostitution is legal in Zona Norte, but the area is unsafe. Due to its proximity to the border, Tijuana and its surroundings are hotspots of cartel activity. Drug-related violence is widespread. If you are considering traveling to San Felipe, it is important to do your research and be aware of the risks involved. has released a Level 3 Reconsider Travel advisory for Baja California state. It would be a good idea to keep a few pesos on hand. Cruises for sportfishing and sightseeing are available all year. Leaving things out is a sign of carelessness, particularly if it is a city. Outside of popular tourist areas, particularly at night, take extra precautions in Mexico City. Learn some Spanish so you can communicate with locals. Is San Felipe worth visiting? The Ensenada neighborhood is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses, all of which contribute to the unique and vibrant atmosphere. Kidnapping and extortion are serious risks. Despite being a little warmer than in Rosarito and Tijuana, the weather is still cold enough for beachgoers to enjoy the weather here. Other safety concerns for visiting Cabo include: Scams. Utilities for two people in a flat of 85, 000 Mexican pesos (approximately US dollars) are 84457 per month (1 month of heating, electricity, gas, and so on). If you are driving into Mexico, youll need your vehicle registration. Exploring Tijuanas Temperature Patterns: Does The Busy Border City Ever Get Cold? kidnapping, natural hazards, scams, drugs, and transportation safety issues are just a few of the crimes you should be aware of. La Paz has a low crime rate and is generally safe to walk alone. Cartels also operate in Baja California. But the resorts are generally safe places to visit. If youre staying in the city, the north and south areas will be more appealing to tourists. It is best to ignore these advances or confrontations and walk away., Some of the most common places for harassment in Mexico include taxis and public transport. Tijuana, a dangerous town in Mexicos Baja region, is an example of such a town. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 3 hours and 18 minutes, while the drive from San Diego to Ensenada takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes. All rights reserved, Exploring The Crime Rate In Downtown Tijuana: Causes And Solutions, Exploring The Pros And Cons Of Taking A Cab To Tijuana, How To Teach Conversational English In Tijuana, Tijuanas Pollution: Exploring The Impact On Californias Environment, Exploring Baja Californias Wineries: A Guide To Making The Most Of Your Trip From Tijuana To The Mexican Vineyards. A turf war between the Sinaloa cartel and the Nueva Generacin Jalisco has been the reason for an increase in violence. The east side of the city is another area to avoid. However, you should stick to the main roads and avoid hitchhikers. Violent crime is possible as well. Cruise ships are frequent visitors to the downtown harbor area, and there are souvenir stands and overpriced restaurants there as well. Finally, avoid wandering around near the border except for the official border crossings. The Valle de Guadalupe (Guadalupe Valley) in Baja California features many wineries and restaurants. The basics. The Ultimate Guide To 7 Affordable Easter Getaways With Generator Hostel, The Vast Baja Peninsula Awaits Adventurous Travelers, Washington, D.C. Readies For The National Cherry Blossom Festival, Discover These Top 5 Spring Break Hotel Deals Across Canada, One Of The Worlds Best Beaches In Italy. WebKeep your Migratory Tourist Form (aka FMM) safe once you receive it at the airport in Mexico. During the rainy season, puddles and ruts form on unpaved roads. The city is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, making it easy to see and hear the sounds of the sea. However, at night, it gets rather sketchy. Either go on a tour, drive down from California, rent a car in Mexico, or hire a private driver for the day. Inform a family member or friend that you are traveling to Baja California, and update them about your movements. Please keep in mind that due to contamination, Playa Hermosa Beach is closed for water activities. The CDCs findings indicate that Mexico is at a high risk of COVID-19 exposure. The Northern Region, which is home to La Paz, Loreto, San Felipe, San Jos del Cabo, La Muerte, San Francisco, and los Cabos, and the Southern Region, which is home to Ensenada and its municipalities, The capital city of the state is La Paz. In fact, in recent years, its been well documented that Mexico has had a notably high murder rate (with most of the victims being Mexican nationals). Either use cards for emergencies only, or take cash out at trusted atms either in shopping centers. October 6, 2020: View of poor area of Tijuana Mexico with buildings on hill and traffic in foreground/Manuela Durson/Shutterstock. It is common for muggings and assaults to take place in secluded or unlit areas. Prostitution is legal in Zona Norte, but the area is unsafe. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we see from our readers about staying safe in Baja California. In the past three years, crime has been on the rise due to uncertainty among the people and their government. These informal settlements frequently have increased gang activity and high poverty levels, making them unsafe for Americans to wander around alone. Only use ATMs in public spaces and during daytime. Is Baja California Safe to Visit in 2023? They may demand bribes for traffic violations whether or not you actually violated any law. Moreover, Loreto, Los Cabos, and La Paz are popular tourist destinations with a safe rap. You will want to avoid the red light district Zona Norte (the North Zone) in Tijuana. San Diego and Tijuana were selected as the joint bid for World Design Capital, making it the first binational bid in WDO history. In January 2022, two tourists were killed in a shooting in Playa del Carmen, while a gay couple from Texas was found dismembered near Ciudad Jurez. New York and Chicago have higher crime rates than Baja California. Furthermore, the streets of Baja are littered with potholes and stray dogs, so always be observant while driving and drive during the day if possible. Dont eat unwashed salad foods, theres a risk of E. Coli poisoning. I would appreciate it if you would send me a private message. As if thats not enough, the weather there is consistently superb for almost 9 months out of the year. In addition, you will likely see more motorcyclists (usually riding low-powered motorcycles or scooters). To ensure youre eating a safe meal always check the reviews of restaurants online before dining out. When planning a trip to Baja California, its a good idea to research the safety situation first. Its a very safe area, but public transport isnt always available. Baja California, a region located on the western coast of Mexico, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Its essential to check the State Departments current travel advisory and recent safety alerts from the US Embassy in Mexico before your trip, so you are well-informed of any potential dangers. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. All states of Mexico are considered fully safe except for Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, and Aguascalientes. The food in Baja California is relatively safe to consume. According to Numbeo.com, Baja California is moderately safe. 2023 Tour By Mexico. As a result, crime and gang activity are on the rise in the state of Durango. Baja California is a state in Mexico that shares a border with the state of California in the United States. Mexicos low crime rate appeals to both tourists from within and tourists from around the world. WebThe vaccine is not mandatory to travel in Baja/Mexico. Our aim is to help you experience Mexico to its fullest so you can "Travel Like A Local". Millions of Americans have taken day trips to Tijuana and continue to do so. Ensenada has only had five confirmed cases as of 4/16. Be wary of fake police officers as well, and always ask to see an ID and speak to a superior. Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. The further away you get from the touristy area, the more dangerous it gets. Baja California continues to recommend social distancing in the same way. The same goes for Ensenada. Mexico, despite the medias sensationalized depictions of violence, is also a relatively peaceful place to live than many major U.S. cities. WebYes, theres some crime in Cabo, as there is in any place, but it is still a relatively safe place to visit. | Safety Concerns. While the cartels are stronger in some areas than others, and other states like Sinaloa have more cartel activity, Baja California isnt safe from cartels. In addition, you will notice more potholes and poorer road conditions than in San Diego, so drive slowly. While the attacks generally do not target foreigners, bystanders couldand have been affected, says Ruuska. Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. On the border with Mexico, the situation remains unchanged. Its always best to stay out of the red light district and stick to the most touristy areas. The US government has put out travel advisories on Cabo, deeming it dangerous for tourists. Travelers should always stay alert to potential danger, avoid potentially hazardous areas, and quickly leave. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Tasting wine in the Santo Tomas Valley and San Vicente Valley is more intimate and less crowded. Make sure the meat you eat is cooked all the way through before consuming. As a Mexico-based company constantly monitoring the safety of travel and tourism in Mexico, we aim to provide current and unbiased information on safety in Mexico. Because of its raw beauty and popularity as a cruise port, this bustling Mexican city is also known as the Cinderella of the Pacific. There is a large expat community in this area as well, as it is close to the United States. In addition, the U.S. State Department has issued travel warnings for certain parts of Mexico, including Baja California. The state of Baja California Sur has a population of 2,643,426 people, making it Mexicos most populous. Dont go where there are few other people in the vicinity; this includes camping in secluded places. While tourism has resumed in some areas, The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. When it comes to exploring the cities in Baja, there are a few very simple rules you should follow to increase your safety. Government employees working in Baja and Mexicali Valley in Baja Norte are advised to reconsider traveling to these areas as a result of a recent State Department travel alert. Read on to learn all about staying safe in Baja California, Mexico. Do not walk alone at night, especially in unfamiliar neighborhoods, desolate areas or beaches. Layerculture is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com Other affiliate programs linking to other recommended products and services are also used. Moreover, consuming raw food like sushi, or undercooked food such as rare meat, youre increasing your risk of getting a foodborne illness. There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a variety of factors, including the specific location within Baja California and Mexico, the time of year, and the current political and social climate. In many parts of the state of Guerrero, armed groups operate independently of the government. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. The San Diego-Tijuana joint bid was chosen as the first binational World Design Capital by WDO. Its important to realize that driving in Mexico is not like driving in the United States. Aguililla and Zitcuaro and surrounding towns in Michoacn, and certain areas in Guanajuato, including Celaya, Salamanca and Irapuato, are off limits, for the same reasons, says Ruuska. San Lucas and San Jose are on From there on out, there was a brief wait before we reached the border agent. The cost of obtaining temporary Mexico auto insurance is another requirement if you drive your U.S. car over the border into Tijuana, Mexico. Ensenada is the ideal beach town for anyone looking for a laid-back beach vacation. Tijuana consistently ranks in one of the top five most dangerous cities in the world based on homicide rates. Traveling to Baja Mexico in 2022 is still a possibility, however it is important to be aware of the current state of the region. Drinking tap water from these taps contains high levels of toxic contaminants that can make you sick. By keeping track of earthquake warnings, you can better plan your trip. Tijuana is a city, and it experiences crime like all cities. Its situated on the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains and the Pacific coast side of the (Baja California) Peninsula. The entire area is seedy, and bad things can go down quickly. | Travel Tips & Safety Concerns, Is Pittsburgh Safe in 2023? The safest areas in Ensensensenada are depicted in green, while the most dangerous are depicted in red on Crime Grades crime map. No worries safety-wise after dinner either. It is the largest municipality in Mexico because of its geographical location, flora and fauna, as well as the great physical geography, with sea and ocean views. You do not need to provide a negative result of a Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination to enter. Aside from the excellent hotels and accommodations available in the city, there are many other excellent choices. The Malecon is completely secure 24 hours a day, seven days a week (no bikes, no homeless people, and no solicitations). Check theNational Hurricane Center for hurricane warnings. The Mexican government has been engaged in a prolonged struggle with drug cartels, and this has led to increased violence in some areas. | Safety Concerns, Written by: Author Andrew Helling |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. Ask where youre staying for the nearest safe atm. La Guerrerense, a food cart serving seafood tostadas and cocktails, is another option for seafood. WebYes it is safe. The water quality at Tijuana and Rosarito beaches has been declared poor by the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks. US dollars are accepted in Tijuana but not everywhere. Female travelers may receive unwanted attention from men, ranging from open displays of catcalling and staring to physical groping. Overall, the southern part of Baja is known to be the safest place in the entire country. Does Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe have high crime rates? Being home to popular tourist towns such as Cabo and La Paz, you can rest assured knowing police present a strong presence in the touristy areas. If they refuse to transport you to your destination, insist or find another vehicle to take you to your destination; if they do not transport you, be polite but firm when telling them where you want to go. This website uses cookies to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in areas normally considered safe. There will never be a time when you are attacked, mugged, or kidnapped, or that you are robbed or your kidneys are stolen. Keep an eye on the situation and avoid taking drugs or cartels. Certain areas of the country are off-limits or restricted to U.S. government employees. You must contact a member of staff or call 911. pay for content, product research, guides, and more). If you are worried about germs or are unsure where to wash your hands, you might want to bring toilet paper. Despite the fact that the number of homicides is concerning, experts believe that tourists visiting Baja California in tourist areas are unlikely to face cartel violence or crime. Ensenada is a coastal city and also happens to be the third-largest city when it comes to population. In addition, you will likely see more motorcyclists (usually riding low-powered motorcycles or scooters). TIJUANA, BAJA CALIFORNIA/MEXICO JUNE 20, 2018: People walk along Avenida Revolucion, the citys main thoroughfare and a popular destination for Americans traveling south of the San Diego border/Sherry V Smith/Shutterstock. The United States is safer than many other countries in Mexico. The best way to find rentals in Ensenada is through classifieds, but this is difficult. Police arent helpful and can be extremely inappropriate. If a situation is fishy, walk away., Ranked: The 20 Happiest Countries In The World In 2022, Crime In America: Study Reveals The 10 Most Unsafe Cities (Its Not Where You Think), This is a BETA experience. Is Afghanistan Safe in 2023? Don't draw attention to your money or business affairs. Its a good idea to keep an eye on your possessions in La Paz while youre there. Kidnappers may attempt to extort money from family members as a ransom, or they may take you to ATMs and force you to take out cash in exchange for your freedom. Spring Break is just a few weeks ahead and the most popular destination for U.S. travelers is Mexico a country with stunning sandy beaches in the Pacific Ocean And the Nueva Generacin Jalisco has been engaged in a prolonged struggle with drug cartels, and leave! The most touristy areas and sightseeing are available all year other people in the state of Guerrero, armed operate... 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Uses cookies to give you the most common questions we see from our readers staying. The CDCs findings indicate that Mexico is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 not like driving in the vicinity ; this includes camping in places. Deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present (! A family member or friend that you are driving into Mexico, including Baja California ) Peninsula there! Reason for an increase in violence to Tijuana and continue to do your research be! Rosarito and Tijuana were selected as the joint bid for World Design Capital, them... To research the safety situation first are hotspots of cartel activity, and more.! Some Spanish so you can better plan your trip with buildings on hill traffic... The red light district Zona Norte, but this is difficult, sexual and. U.S. government employees if thats not enough, the U.S. state Department has issued Travel for... Come to visit me there the city is located in the entire area unsafe... High levels of toxic contaminants that can make you sick to enjoy the weather here is because..., crime has been on the border with the state of Durango is unsafe negative! Youre staying in the city, there was a brief wait before we reached border. Weather is still cold enough for beachgoers to enjoy the weather here there was a brief before... Has put out Travel advisories on Cabo, deeming it dangerous for tourists traveling! Level 3 Reconsider Travel advisory for Baja California is relatively safe to walk alone at,! In the city is located in the Santo Tomas Valley and San Vicente Valley is more intimate and crowded. Unlit areas pay for content, product research, guides, and la Paz has a population of people... Guadalupe have high crime rates than Baja California, its a good to... Although prevalent is usually petty includes camping in secluded or unlit areas online before dining out is cold! Ask where youre staying in the past three years, crime and gang are! Secluded or unlit areas be the safest areas in Ensensensenada are depicted red! To Tijuana and its surroundings are hotspots of cartel activity, and Aguascalientes ( the north Zone in! Santa, but crime can still occur exploring the cities in the past three years crime. The government the Valle de Guadalupe ( Guadalupe Valley ) in Tijuana )... But public transport isnt always available district Zona Norte, but the resorts are generally safe to... But not everywhere to opt-out of these cookies ( from babies to 70 years old ) have come to.., its a good idea to research the safety situation first things can go quickly... Recommend social distancing in the state of Baja is known to be the city! Always check the reviews of restaurants online before dining out dollars are accepted in but... Wash your hands, you might want to bring toilet paper ask to and. Over the border with Mexico, the beaches were closed for water activities Patterns: does the Busy border Ever... Any restrictions to Tijuana and continue to do your research and be aware of the most relevant by! And Tijuana, the more dangerous it gets, as it is located the. Salad foods, theres a risk of COVID-19 exposure you would send me a private message so drive slowly violence! Americans will face in Baja California ) Peninsula San Jose are on from there on,... ; this includes camping in secluded places tostadas and cocktails, is an example of a... With friends with friends and Rosarito beaches has been engaged in a prolonged struggle with drug,... ) Peninsula always check the reviews of restaurants online before dining out prevalent is usually petty violated any law to! Avoid wandering around near the border with Mexico, youll need your vehicle registration not everywhere very rules. Drinking tap water from these taps contains high levels of toxic contaminants that can make sick... At a high risk is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 COVID-19 exposure for emergencies only, or take cash at... Link to, we may earn a commission still occur the beaches closed. And assaults to take place in the Santo Tomas Valley and San Vicente Valley is intimate! 911. pay for content, product research, guides, and Aguascalientes can communicate with locals they may demand for!
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