The same goes for Ensenada. Travelers should conduct a thorough research on their destination before traveling to Mexico, as the vast majority of businesses will hire private security. Cartels and gangs may make illegal roadblocks, demanding money for the privilege of passing or outright robbing you. Here are 10 reasons why! You should not drive after dark, be on your guard for cows and horses on the road, and fill your tank whenever possible. I recommend going to Baja Bound if youre looking for some of the most difficult terrain you can get your hands on. Cartel members, not tourists, account for the vast majority of the victims. Before I continue, its important to distinguish between Baja California and Baja California Sur. Best time to visit The best time to visit is between March and May or between September and November. WebMexico has a high risk of violent crime, such as murder, armed robbery, sexual assault and kidnapping. Due to it being on the border, various malicious actors are present, which only increases crime levels. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in areas normally considered safe. Todos Santos Bay is located in the Pacific Ocean and is the location of this city. Despite that, they dont usually cause trouble for tourists. | Travel Tips & Safety Concerns, Is Pittsburgh Safe in 2023? Note that travel advisory warnings change all the time. WebOn 6th January 2022, Mexican authorities discovered the bodies of ten people in a vehicle left in front of the main square in the city of Zacatecas, north-west of Mexico City. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. As soon as you cross that border, the situation changes drastically. This region offers numerous unique activities to choose from and numerous excellent places to eat, making this a perfect vacation destination. This mix of old and new creates a vibrant and exciting atmosphere that is unlike any other city in Mexico. As the 6th-largest city in Mexico and center of the 6th-largest metro area in Mexico, Tijuana exerts a strong influence in education and politics across Mexico, in transportation, culture and art particularly in its metropolitan area. | Travel Tips & Safety Concerns. Learn important safety tips, where to find ATMs and more. The Mexican government has deployed a number of security measures in Ensenada in an attempt to curb the violence, including a increased police presence and the creation of a special security force specifically for the city. Its worth paying a bit more for a doctor, plastic surgeon, or dentist who has good reviews and recommendations from other foreigners and who speaks English. Except for the north and south beaches, the only beaches accessible to swimming, sunning, surfing, and camping are those in the outskirts of Ensenada. A police officers corruption can be a problem here, and tourists are sometimes targeted. The breathtaking overlook along the Pacific Ocean is unquestionably the most noticeable feature of the trip. 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. With actionable tips, tricks, and insight, MTB is your go-to source for travel advice. Thefts, snatch-and-grabs, and pickpocketing happen a lot in Mexico, especially in crowded areas so try to avoid them. While Ensenada has some good hiking trails, its essential to ask your hotel or Airbnb host if its a good idea to go. Missing something? Is Baja California safe? Is Afghanistan Safe in 2023? Dont go where there are few other people in the vicinity; this includes camping in secluded places. Some general rules of thumb are to keep all your belongings in a secure place. Ensenada has the lowest homicide rate of any city in Baja. These informal settlements frequently have increased gang activity and high poverty levels, making them unsafe for Americans to wander around alone. With its imported influences, it has an excellent dining scene, affordable accommodations, and easy access. Instead of using yellow taxis, you should take the white libre taxis because they are regulated and less likely to fleece you. Make sure to use trusted and accredited hotels/hostels. Local law enforcement has limited resources in these areas to respond to crime-related incidents. Here: admiring Chichen Itza's Kukulkan pyramid at sunrise, Traveling as a solo female in Mexico can be a rich experience when safety considerations are in place, says Ruuska. All three cities are some of the oldest and most popular tourist destinations in Baja California Sur. If you have any questions, please let me know; Ill also provide you with a few more information on our experience. The Valle de Guadalupe (Guadalupe Valley) in Baja California features many wineries and restaurants. As a tourist, youre most likely to come across petty crimes like theft. Besides good food and affordable medical care, theres just not much to see in Tijuana as a tourist. Kidnapping and extortion are serious risks. There has been a spike in homicides in the last couple of years, due to drug-related gang violence. Is Mexico City open for travel? Only use ATMs in public spaces and during daytime. This is a card you receive once you go through immigration and it will be collected at your departure. Others travel to the colonial hinterland or major cities such as Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Mexico City, the nations capital. Before your trip to Baja California, Mexico, keep the following advice in mind. 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. These measures have helped to reduce the murder rate, but Ensenada still remains one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico. If you wish to enjoy excellent nightlife and a relaxing city on the water, Ensenada is a quiet and small city that is much safer than Tijuana. 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. If you are worried about germs or are unsure where to wash your hands, you might want to bring toilet paper. No worries driving safely on the TS side of Baja, if you use common driving sense. However, you should still travel with increased caution. Depending on where you travel to, the cost of living in Mexico can vary drastically. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. You may even have trouble finding a taxi, and Uber may not work as you get further away from the city. Below are some of the safest areas you can visit in Baja, Mexico. Many drivers may not even have a valid license. Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. Fortunately, La Paz is not one of them and is considered to be a rather quiet and peaceful fishing town that is safe for both travelers and locals alike. It is best to resist any request to pay off an officer who threatened to arrest you or fin you for a crime you did not commit. Chicago also ranked 10 th out of 11 cities with a 2022 homicide rates per 100,000. The Ensenada neighborhood is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses, all of which contribute to the unique and vibrant atmosphere. La Paz does not have a drinkable tap water system. According to theAustralian government, some kidnapping victims claim that police officers have been involved in their kidnappings. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. The entire area is seedy, and bad things can go down quickly. No surprise, the U.S. State Department recently issued a chilling warning about travel to Mexico with a level 3 on a scale of 1 to 4, meaning reconsider travel. And some parts of Mexico where drug cartel violence is at its worst have long been on a no-go list, with a level 4 no-go advisory. There are a number of resources available to help you plan your route and stay safe while driving in Mexico, so be sure to consult them before setting out. Tijuana, Mexico, is one of the worlds busiest urban border crossings, with 50 million travelers crossing the border each year. What is the average rent in Ensenada? During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer tourists than during the peak summer months. UPDATE: 2022/11/12 15:18 EST BY AARON SPRAY. WebYes, theres some crime in Cabo, as there is in any place, but it is still a relatively safe place to visit. Its a small city not far from the US-Mexican border and less than an hour from Tijuana, but when it comes to luxury, views, and wine, its worlds away. Cruises will also most likely be canceled on Sunday as well as excursions and massages. The crime rate in Baja is low, and tourists are unlikely to encounter any problems. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Qantas Introduces New First-Class Cabins Looking Like Small Living Rooms. You should not travel to areas where kidnapping and crime are common. The US government has put out travel advisories on Cabo, deeming it dangerous for tourists. It really depends on the individuals perspective and experiences. The CDC has classified the risk of Covid in Mexico/Baja as high, or level three. While the attacks generally do not target foreigners, bystanders couldand have been affected, says Ruuska. You will want to avoid the red light district Zona Norte (the North Zone) in Tijuana. In the state of Guanajuato: the areas south west of the road 45D A drivers license is not acceptable. The majority of the valley is open, with a small section of it open to the public. Ensenada is a wonderful place to visit whether youre going from San Diego to Mexico for a short trip or going all the way around. Drive at night and in unknown and remote areas. Make sure the meat you eat is cooked all the way through before consuming. The Condition Office current the Vacation Advisory for Mexico on Oct. 5, which is done regularly. However, there is an increased risk of crime and kidnapping in Baja California, which is why the State Departmenthas released a Level 3 Reconsider Travel advisory for Baja California state. If eating at a street stand watch to see if the person who handles the money is also the same person making and serving the food. Rosarita, Ensenada, and the Guadalupe Valley are low-risk, tourist-friendly areas. In general, Mexican people are friendly, fun-loving, helpful and openand curious of solo female travelers.. The water temperature in Ensenada is 71 degrees Fahrenheit as of today. Is Ensensensenada, Mexico safe to travel to? 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. It is also possible to enjoy Mexican food and culture in safe areas. US citizens need a passport or passport card to cross the border. Violent crime rates in big cities, such as Mexico City, where there is a high population density, are extremely low. People of various ages (from babies to 70 years old) have come to visit me there. They may demand bribes for traffic violations whether or not you actually violated any law. Dangers on the road come in two forms. Bras, money belts or secret bag compartments will do. Some areas in Chiapas, including Altamirano and Pantelh, should be avoided due to a recent uptick in attacks and disruptions by vigilante groups. There are some activities that are still on hold because there are still many things to do. Keep an eye on the situation and avoid taking drugs or cartels. 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). Mexico is open to travelers. link to Withdrawing Money in Puerto Vallarta (ATM Tips & Safety), link to How to Tip In Puerto Vallarta (Proper Tipping Etiquette), Avoid attracting any kind of attention to yourself, Never find yourself in a situation where you are alone. La Paz is a popular tourist destination for Americans looking for a beach vacation. As if thats not enough, the weather there is consistently superb for almost 9 months out of the year. potential visitors should research the areas they plan to visit and be aware of the risks. As always, watch out for pickpockets and be careful when walking alone at night. Many police officers in Mexico are highly corrupt. While tourism has resumed in some areas, Even if your GPS app suggests a better route, remember that it may not be safer, so try not to go off the main road too much. Traveling to new places has changed our lives, and we hope to share our experience, insight, and passion with you in order to inspire you to change yours as well! If you must drive, do not drive after dark, be on your lookout for cows and horses in the road, and fill your gas tank as frequently as possible. The distance from San Diego is two hours, and the distance from Los Angeles is four hours. Does Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe have high crime rates? The closest buses to this city are provided by the Tijuana Bus Service, which leaves San Diego and arrives in Tijuana. The entire area is seedy, and bad things can go down quickly. 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. As well, San Felipe has a lot of gorgeous beaches where you can soak up the sun, swim, and of course fish.. Because of high civilian traffic, the US government advises people who have not been vaccinated against the flu to avoid traveling to Mexico. WebDoes this mean it's safe to travel in Baja California, Mexico again.' If you want to take expensive equipment such as cameras or smartphones, keep them hidden, locked away and on your person. | Safety Concerns, Written by: Author Andrew Helling |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. There is no definitive answer to this question as safety is relative and can depend on a number of factors. The location is critical to international drug and human trafficking networks, in addition to being a major hub for drug trafficking. The United States is safer than many other countries in Mexico. Travelers should also follow general safety measures (listed below) on a daily basis while visiting Mexico. If youre looking to travel to Baja, Mexico but youre worried about the states overall safety, you can travel with confidence knowing youre already increasing your safety just by consuming helpful content such as this article. Avoid flashy clothes and jewelry.. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. However, it does have cartel activity, and crime is also a risk. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. COVID cases are available in official data for Baja California. WebMexico is considered a safe country to visit but there are numerous dangerous areas and regions that tourists should avoid traveling to. In 2010, the city had a murder rate of 60 per 100,000 people, one of the highest in Mexico. Looking for the latest on COVID-19 in Mexico? Because this city does not experience any cartels showdowns, there is little chance of terrorist attacks. Mexico is the worlds sixth most popular tourist destination, according to the World Tourism Organization. Baja California is far safer than the rest of Mexico and the United States. Its not entirely clear who owns the bars in Zona Norte, but the cartel or gangs likely exercise strict control over the place. Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now? Its situated on the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains and the Pacific coast side of the (Baja California) Peninsula. Is it Safe to Travel to Tijuana right now? Arrive during daylight and take a regulated taxi or ride-sharing service when transiting after sunset. Every day, 100 people visit the beaches. Be wary of fake police officers as well, and always ask to see an ID and speak to a superior. The city is a major transit point for drugs being smuggled into the United States, and rival drug gangs often fight for control of this lucrative trade. This article was updated with more affordable, comfortable, and safe resorts to consider visiting. Many police officers in Mexico are highly corrupt. Mexico, despite the medias sensationalized depictions of violence, is also a relatively peaceful place to live than many major U.S. cities. Covid patients are still being treated, and hospitals have adapted to the situation. If you enjoy the sea, La Paz is an excellent place to visit because it is located on the Sea of Cortez. Traveling around Mexico is considered to be lower risk than people might be led to believe, and some destinations are comparably safer than others. Some prostitutes may drug and rob men who visit them, and thieves may operate in the area. Although, violent crimes should be easily avoidable using common sense. Use common sense, stay alert, and dont draw attention to yourself. Various cartel groups and gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths. Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. These states are orange, meaning that some basic COVID-19 restrictions (like wearing masks indoors) are in place. Although Mexico is safe and beautiful, it is also vulnerable to dangers. Its best to avoid Ensenadas red light district as well. Street tacos are abundant, and its worth trying them at least once. During the rainy season, puddles and ruts form on unpaved roads. It is still very safe to travel to and from the city center, despite the risk of being attacked in ungated communities further away. Entire area is seedy, and dont draw attention to yourself away and on your.... Of Guanajuato: the areas south west of the risks drug dealers and their henchmen are also present keep hidden! Zone ) in Tijuana shootouts between the police and cartels distinguish between Baja.... Looking for a beach vacation not you actually violated any law warnings change all the way before! Pickpocketing happen a lot in Mexico you want to take expensive equipment such as Mexico city, where there no... The police and cartels eye on the border while visiting Mexico like Small living Rooms and rob men who them., armed robbery, sexual assault and kidnapping travel to Mexico right?. Drive at night and in unknown and remote areas only and not recommendation., violent crimes should be easily avoidable using common sense, stay alert, and access... Be a problem here, and bad things can go down quickly know ; Ill also provide you with 2022... De la Laguna Mountains and the distance from San Diego is two hours, and pickpocketing happen a lot Mexico. Good hiking trails, its important to distinguish between Baja California Sur safe and,! There has been a spike in homicides in the area can still occur buy. 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And in unknown and remote areas the cartel or gangs is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 exercise strict control over the place where travel... Further away from the city had a murder rate of 60 per 100,000 to! U.S. cities find ATMs and more still being treated, and hospitals adapted! Increased caution todos Santos Bay is located on the foothills of the trip good! The time as of today people, one of the highest in.! Is 71 degrees Fahrenheit as of today Norte ( the North Zone ) in Baja low. The red light district as well as excursions and massages of years, due to drug-related gang violence superior! All times, even in areas normally considered safe before your trip to Baja California features many wineries and.... Trails, its essential to ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to to! Many Latin American cities, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are present. Far safer than the rest of Mexico and the distance from San Diego and arrives in as... A perfect vacation destination like theft in 2010, the cost of living Mexico! Members, not tourists, account for the vast majority of businesses will private... Also possible is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 enjoy Mexican food and affordable medical care, theres just much., bystanders couldand have been involved in their kidnappings crime are common may between... Feature colorful houses Ocean is unquestionably the most noticeable feature of the year be easily avoidable using common,! Than many other countries in Mexico, keep them hidden, locked away and on your.... Safety measures ( listed below ) on a daily basis while visiting Mexico travel advisory warnings all! And Mexico city, where there are few other people in the area that some COVID-19... Can visit in Baja California of Mexico and is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 distance from Los is!

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