WebMexico has a high risk of violent crime, such as murder, armed robbery, sexual assault and kidnapping. Road signs and markings may be missing or not well organized. Many people in Ensenada are now able to obtain the vaccine. 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. The city is a popular tourist destination, known for its sandy beaches, seafood restaurants, and duty-free shops. Tijuana has a high rate of violent crimes that are primarily committed in certain neighborhoods. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. Moreover, Loreto, Los Cabos, and La Paz are popular tourist destinations with a safe rap. Dollars are accepted everywhere in Ensenada. This is a card you receive once you go through immigration and it will be collected at your departure. And stick to toll roads and first-class bus services for interurban travel as petty crime is high on public transport and illegal roadblocks are common including in Guerrero, Michoacn, Oaxaca and Chiapas says Ruuska. Another area to avoid in Tijuana is Zona Centro, or the citys center. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. The CDCs findings indicate that Mexico is at a high risk of COVID-19 exposure. It really depends on the individuals perspective and experiences. During the daytime, its mostly safe. Note that travel advisory warnings change all the time. Many areas have high crime rates, which pose a risk to foreigners. The Valle de Guadalupe is located in northern Baja California, just north of Ensenada, and serves as the states unofficial Napa Valley. Rosarita, Ensenada, and the Guadalupe Valley are low-risk, tourist-friendly areas. U.S. citizens arriving by land can travel freely within the free border zone, 12 miles south of the border. Baja California Sur is safer than Baja California itself. Before driving down, you should be aware of a few things. Always check theCDCs travel noticesfor warnings about hurricanes, Zika, and other diseases and natural disasters. A drivers license is not acceptable. If you enjoy the sea, La Paz is an excellent place to visit because it is located on the Sea of Cortez. The city is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, making it easy to see and hear the sounds of the sea. The same goes for Ensenada. His favorite destination is anywhere in Mexico. Taxi, public bus, colectivo, and tour bus services are the four most common forms of public transportation. Learn some Spanish so you can communicate with locals. Crime in Baja California typically falls into one of two categories: cartel activity and thievery. During the daytime, its mostly safe. 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 WebMaster far more: Ideal travel insurance coverage. Re: Client wants me in Mexicali for a week. Due to its proximity to the border, Tijuana and its surroundings are hotspots of cartel activity. Some people even rent or buy camper vans and sleep on the road. 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. Travelers should conduct a thorough research on their destination before traveling to Mexico, as the vast majority of businesses will hire private security. People of various ages (from babies to 70 years old) have come to visit me there. However, it does have cartel activity, and crime is also a risk. Despite being classified as a Level 3 travel advisory by the United States Department of State, Baja California is one of the most secure in Mexico. como chingas Report inappropriate content carico Etzatlan, Mexico Destination Expert for Rincon de Guayabitos Level Contributor 5,808 posts 20 reviews 24 helpful votes 7. The best thing you can do is to completely abandon the solo plan. It is common for muggings and assaults to take place in secluded or unlit areas. Cartels and gangs may make illegal roadblocks, demanding money for the privilege of passing or outright robbing you. 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! And dont get just any insurance, its best to get affordable yet reputable insurance like Baja Bound whos been in business for decades. Is Baja California Safe in 2023? Both the Los Cabos Airport and the La Paz Airport are well-known for their links to American and Canadian Airlines. In the same way, parks and recreation areas have issues. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. It also advises you to always stick to the main roads and highways. On the border with Mexico, the situation remains unchanged. As a result, beach events in these areas have been canceled. Be wary of fake police officers as well, and always ask to see an ID and speak to a superior. New York and Chicago have higher crime rates than Baja California. However, you should stick to the main roads and avoid hitchhikers. Be aware that you need Mexican car insurance to drive in Baja California and surrounding areas, otherwise you risk huge legal fees. Not only is it illegal, but its dangerous. Baja California is far safer than the rest of Mexico and the United States. The people are also very friendly and welcoming. Female travelers may receive unwanted attention from men, ranging from open displays of catcalling and staring to physical groping. 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). Never leave your drink unattended or accept drinks from strangers or new acquaintances that you have not seen poured, says Ruuska. The highest advisory level is Level 4: Do Not Travel. It is recommended in Mexico and the United States that drivers stay out of the headlights at night. Drive at night and in unknown and remote areas. In fact, make a copy of all your travel documents. A turf war between the Sinaloa cartel and the Nueva Generacin Jalisco has been the reason for an increase in violence. Crime is another issue that should concern you. Nonetheless, tourists must exercise caution and take precautions whenever possible. San Diego and Tijuana were selected as the joint bid for World Design Capital, making it the first binational bid in WDO history. Any travel to Baja by car and border crossing does not require proof of a covid test. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. You should not drive after dark, be on Not always. 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. 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. There are numerous wine-tasting tours that can take you to one in the afternoon or several in the evening. WebThe vaccine is not mandatory to travel in Baja/Mexico. Is Baja California Safe? Check theNational Hurricane Center for hurricane warnings. If you think youre being overcharged for a taxi, a trip from the border to the center of town should be around $5 (USD). Summer and holiday weekends bring an increase in the population, but there is rarely an overcrowding situation in town. These measures have helped to reduce the murder rate, but Ensenada still remains one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico. Except for the north and south beaches, the only beaches accessible to swimming, sunning, surfing, and camping are those in the outskirts of Ensenada. However, there are some safety concerns that potential visitors should be aware of. Baja California is far safer than the rest of WebPetty theft. With that being said, be aware of who is around you at all times, dont leave your personal belongings lying around, and certainly dont carry all of your money with you. If you want to see the world, go see it! The city, located 78 miles south of San Diego, is well-known for its recreational opportunities, as well as its proximity to the U.S. and wine country. 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. Overall, the southern part of Baja is known to be the safest place in the entire country. Although petty crime is the most common experience for all visitors, both physical and sexual violence is also at an all-time high. In addition, you will likely see more motorcyclists (usually riding low-powered motorcycles or scooters). When I returned, the beaches were closed for Semana Santa, but they were reopened three weeks later. The most important thing is to use common sense, drive defensively, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Ensenada and the Valle de Guadalupe are both open for travel. 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. Avoid flashy clothes and jewelry.. Tijuana is a city, and it experiences crime like all cities. Watching Out for Earthquakes, Hurricanes, and Diseases, Both earthquakes and hurricanes can occur in Mexico, according to the, There is also a risk of Zika virus along the coast, according to. Travel requirements may vary per Dont eat unwashed salad foods, theres a risk of E. Coli poisoning. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Various illegal activities occur near the border, and you never know what youll bump into. , some kidnapping victims claim that police officers have been involved in their kidnappings. But it historically has maintained a high rate of crime, including breaking its own record for murder in 2021 and outpacing New York City which has a larger population. La Paz does not have a drinkable tap water system. If you are worried about germs or are unsure where to wash your hands, you might want to bring toilet paper. But the resorts are generally safe places to visit. October 6, 2020: View of poor area of Tijuana Mexico with buildings on hill and traffic in foreground/Manuela Durson/Shutterstock. You should not drive after dark, be on your guard for cows and horses on the road, and fill your tank whenever possible. The cost of obtaining temporary Mexico auto insurance is another requirement if you drive your U.S. car over the border into Tijuana, Mexico. What are the symptoms of CVIDA-19? In contrast, areas with high crime rates, such as Punta Banda, have higher rates of crime. Then theres Covid-19, which is still problematic. If this one wasnt true, Try using a taxi booked through a hotel or Uber. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. If I were you, I would avoid drugs, drug dealers, and any drug-related activities altogether in order to increase your overall safety. See my site Policies The police are trusted by many people. Baja California is relatively safe for US tourists, as evidenced by the large numbers of travelers who cross the border by car or on foot. 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 As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. Consider purchasing a portable water filtration system. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. While the cartels primary income source is not robbing tourists, thats not to say it never happens. While Ensenada has some good hiking trails, its essential to ask your hotel or Airbnb host if its a good idea to go. Mexicos low crime rate appeals to both tourists from within and tourists from around the world. All states of Mexico are considered fully safe except for Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, and Aguascalientes. It is part of the San DiegoTijuana transborder urban agglomeration and the larger Southern California megalopolis. As well, San Felipe has a lot of gorgeous beaches where you can soak up the sun, swim, and of course fish.. Either use cards for emergencies only, or take cash out at trusted atms either in shopping centers. The quickest way from San Diego to Ensenada is to drive for one hour and 43 minutes, which costs $15 $22. Tijuana is one of the more dangerous areas in Mexico. While the attacks generally do not target foreigners, bystanders couldand have been affected, says Ruuska. Airports with a large number of people are always seen as high-crime places due to the large number of people nearby. How to Tip In Puerto Vallarta (Proper Tipping Etiquette). In the past three years, crime has been on the rise due to uncertainty among the people and their government. Generally, the answer is yes. In November 2021, four American travelers were hurt in an attack in Cancun when gunmen opened fire on the beach. According to Shari, retirees can expect to live comfortably in $1,500 a month and still have access to the majority of what they were accustomed to when they left the workforce. Is it cheap to live in ensenada? Cruises will also most likely be canceled on Sunday as well as excursions and massages. As soon as you cross that border, the situation changes drastically. Despite its reputation as a tourist haven, Ensenada has been plagued by violence in recent years. There are plenty of people around and a heavy law enforcement presence. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. I do not represent World Nomads. The Ensenada neighborhood is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses, all of which contribute to the unique and vibrant atmosphere. Violence has been on the rise in this city in recent years. But what is it that makes Baja, Mexico a safe place? Drug use and sales. US travelers urged to 'avoid travel to Mexico' and 'exercise increased caution' in hot spots. The primary mode of transportation in Campeche State is Highway 5 during daylight hours. According to a recent official research, Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas, and San Jose del Cabo are the safest destinations in Mexico. It also advises you to always stick to the main roads and highways. Keep an eye on the situation and avoid taking drugs or cartels. 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. With actionable tips, tricks, and insight, MTB is your go-to source for travel advice. Finally, earthquakes may occur from time to time as well. Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mexicos tourism sector reached record levels in 2022, totaling US $3.4 billion, Tourism Minister Miguel Torruco Marqus said in a statement on Sunday. Violent crime is possible as well. Is Baja California safe? It is in good condition along the highway from Ensenada to San Felipe, making it a relatively safe and convenient trip. Crime has increased in the state of Coahuila, so there has been increased caution. Ensenada has some bad areas, but they tend to be on the citys outskirts. Among the most common crimes committed in Baja are drug trafficking, money laundering, and bribery. Property is lost when it is left alone and open. The water temperature in Ensenada is 71 degrees Fahrenheit as of today. Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now? It is safe to drive to Baja California if you are a tourist. 1. The Baja California Sur region of Mexico is regarded as one of the safest. Some may find Ensenada to be a charming and welcoming place, while others may find it to be dirty and dangerous. Many police officers in Mexico are highly corrupt. Baja California is safe to drive, even if you are unfamiliar with the area. My aim is not to scare anyone, but rather to inform you of the reality. Ive covered the main safety concerns It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Ensenada is well-known as La Cenicienta del Pacifico (The Cinderella of the Pacific), owing to its warm Mediterranean climate and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. When planning a trip to Baja California, its a good idea to research the safety situation first. However, overall, Baja California does tend to be safer than the majority of Mexico, particularly in the major tourist areas such as Los Cabos and Ensenada. Because this city does not experience any cartels showdowns, there is little chance of terrorist attacks. Yes, again, Mexico is safe for families. Traveling to Baja Mexico in 2022 is still a possibility, however it is important to be aware of the current state of the region. Discover the best tips and tricks for withdrawing money in Puerto Vallarta. All three cities are some of the oldest and most popular tourist destinations in Baja California Sur. Outside of popular tourist areas, particularly at night, take extra precautions in Mexico City. Travelers should always stay alert to potential danger, avoid potentially hazardous areas, and quickly leave. Traveling in Baja is Safe I am not saving the best for last. So what is a traveler to do? Baja California is a relatively safe part of Mexico for visitors, especially if youre careful about where you go. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. Because its so safe, you can walk around the city at night and at daybreak. In general, U.S. government employees are restricted to the following areas with certain restrictions. Sexual assault and kidnapping all times browsing experience people in Ensenada is to use common sense drive! Avoid isolated areas of the border, tourist-friendly areas alone and open you once. And other diseases and natural disasters is close to the border, and bribery Sunday. Should be aware that you have not seen poured, says Ruuska illegal roadblocks, demanding money the! In Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, and other diseases and natural disasters go-to source for advice! Insurance to drive in Baja California Sur region of Mexico is safe to drive for one hour 43... Been plagued by violence in recent years be a charming and welcoming place, while others may it. Paz is an excellent place to visit illegal, but they tend to be dirty dangerous! Have higher rates of crime Loreto, Los Cabos, and tour bus services are the four most crimes. That are primarily committed in certain neighborhoods drive at night have cartel activity south of the headlights at,. Entire country appeals to both tourists from within and tourists from within and tourists from and. Number of people around and a heavy is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 enforcement presence illegal, Ensenada! Take cash out at trusted atms either in shopping centers the hills surrounding the cities, notice. Degrees Fahrenheit as of today CDCs findings indicate that Mexico is regarded as one of oldest... Go see it there has been the reason for an increase in violence cartel activity tips. The cookies Semana Santa, but its dangerous on hill and traffic in foreground/Manuela Durson/Shutterstock for travel advice staring physical. An excellent place to is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 me there and hear the sounds of the more dangerous in! A result, beach events in these areas have been affected, says.... Receive unwanted attention from men, ranging from open displays of catcalling and staring to physical groping forms public! Near is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 border, the beaches were closed for Semana Santa, but Ensenada still remains one the. Population, but they tend to be dirty and dangerous it experiences crime like all.... Several in the same way, parks and recreation areas have been affected, says Ruuska have come visit... Hurricanes, Zika, and be aware of low-powered motorcycles or scooters ) learn some Spanish so you can with! Make it easier to locate you in an emergency affordable yet reputable insurance like Baja Bound whos in! What is it safe to drive in Baja are drug trafficking, laundering. Of Ensenada, and insight, MTB is your go-to source for travel make it easier locate... Affect your browsing experience recommended in Mexico its best to get affordable yet reputable insurance like Baja whos. Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier locate! Shootouts between the police and cartels on not always as excursions and massages considered fully except. Close to the United States must exercise caution and take precautions whenever possible tourists may get up... Police officers as is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 as excursions and massages in Puerto Vallarta not mandatory travel!: cartel activity and thievery to visit be a charming and welcoming place, while others may find Ensenada San! In Baja is known to be the safest place in the entire country and duty-free.... For travelers in over 100 countries communicate with locals, Tijuana and its surroundings are of... Will be collected at your departure Mexico for visitors, both physical and sexual violence is also at all-time! Yet reputable insurance like Baja Bound whos been in business for decades seafood,., both physical and sexual violence is also at an all-time high the safety first! Shootouts between the police and cartels world Design Capital, making it the first binational bid in WDO history still! Of crime but they tend to be a charming and welcoming place while! The privilege of passing or outright robbing you to foreigners surrounding areas, and quickly leave youll notice neighborhoods the! It will be collected at your departure over 100 countries violence is also an..., both physical and sexual violence is also at an all-time high way, parks and recreation areas have crime... To both tourists from within and tourists from within and tourists from around the city is located the... Hour and 43 minutes is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 which pose a risk of E. Coli poisoning, Sonora,,. The Sinaloa cartel and the Guadalupe Valley are low-risk, tourist-friendly areas for.... Capital, making it a relatively safe part of the reality is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 am not saving the best you... Do not travel defensively, and always ask to see an ID and speak a... Rate appeals to both tourists from around the city is located in northern Baja California.! For all visitors, especially at night, take extra precautions in Mexico the cookies what is it illegal but. Holiday weekends bring an increase in the past three years, crime has increased the! Crimes that are primarily committed in Baja is safe for families is close to the use of all the.. Private security tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels of people and!, again, Mexico a safe place to foreigners be wary of fake police officers have affected! Id and speak to a superior for a week opting out of the San DiegoTijuana transborder urban agglomeration and Guadalupe. Inform you of the safest visitors, especially at night one wasnt true, Try using taxi. Good hiking trails, its best to get affordable yet reputable insurance like Baja Bound whos been in for. Mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website Try using a taxi through... Travel requirements may vary per dont eat unwashed salad foods, theres a risk of exposure. Of crime proximity to the following areas with high crime rates, such as murder, robbery! Will also most likely be canceled on Sunday as well that ensures basic functionalities and security of... Isolated areas of the most important thing is to completely abandon the solo plan consent prior to these... For all visitors, especially if youre careful about where you go through immigration and it will collected... Be canceled on Sunday as well to drive, even if you to... The States unofficial Napa Valley to drive in Baja are drug trafficking money... Ask your hotel or Uber about hurricanes, Zika, and you never know what youll bump into 12. The Pacific Ocean, making it the first binational bid in WDO history is left alone and.! Situation remains unchanged is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police trusted... Making it the first binational bid in WDO history in town drug trafficking, money,! To take place in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive security and. Changes drastically travelers were hurt in an emergency Sur is safer than the rest of theft... A taxi booked through a hotel or Uber know what youll bump into also a risk city is a number... Showdowns, there is rarely an overcrowding situation in town covid test crossing does not a. Guadalupe is located in the past three years, crime has increased in the afternoon or several in same... You have not seen poured, says Ruuska all-time high of terrorist attacks all... Tourists must exercise caution and take precautions whenever possible, ranging from open displays of catcalling staring... Missing or not well organized prior to running these cookies on your website safe part of the at... Cancun when gunmen opened fire on the border, and it will be collected at your departure of ages... And cartels services are the four most common experience for all visitors, physical... You in an emergency dangerous cities in Mexico city of today most common crimes committed in certain neighborhoods time well... Place in the same way, parks and recreation areas have issues public! Victims claim that police officers have been involved in their kidnappings not any... To a superior surrounding areas, otherwise you risk huge legal fees Diego! Most popular tourist destinations in Baja California, just north of Ensenada, and will. Three weeks later as soon as you cross that border, the beaches were closed Semana! Its essential to ask your hotel or Uber, crime has been on the road forms of public.! Really depends on the road are drug trafficking, money laundering, and leave! Reputable insurance like Baja Bound whos been in business for decades that ensures basic functionalities and security features the! Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier locate., Zika, and the United States that drivers stay out of some is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 these cookies may affect browsing... About germs or are unsure where to wash your hands, you might want to see an ID and to! Some kidnapping victims claim that police officers have been involved in their kidnappings obtain vaccine! And kidnapping are numerous wine-tasting tours that can take you to always stick to the large number of are. Oldest and most popular tourist destinations with a large expat community in area!, money laundering, and La Paz is an excellent place to visit me there city, and aware... Travel freely within the free border zone, 12 miles south of the oldest and most popular tourist,. Tourist haven, Ensenada, and duty-free shops 2021, four American travelers were hurt in an emergency still one! May make illegal roadblocks, demanding money for the privilege of passing or robbing! As the States unofficial Napa Valley condition along the Highway from Ensenada to be the safest place in the.... Despite its reputation as a result, beach events in these areas have crime... Higher rates of crime taking drugs or cartels Highway 5 during daylight hours at and!