Travel Advisory 2023. If you are driving into Mexico, youll need your vehicle registration. You're not guaranteed tomorrow, and, often times, you can buy an international plane ticket for less than a domestic one. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. WebMexico has a high risk of violent crime, such as murder, armed robbery, sexual assault and kidnapping. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. Finally, earthquakes may occur from time to time as well. When a city receives a C grade, it is estimated that the rate of crime is roughly the same as in other US cities. The vast majority of violent crimes in Ensenada are drug-related. Traveling to Baja is not dangerous as long as you come prepared and know what to watch out for. Cartels also operate in Baja California. Taxi, public bus, colectivo, and tour bus services are the four most common forms of public transportation. If you lose it, you will have to pay for a new one. However, is Baja California safe for tourists, both single tourists and families? 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! There are no longer any Ensenada Massages, Valle Mobile Spa, or Ensenada Excursions available. US dollars are accepted in Tijuana but not everywhere. Traveling around Mexico is considered to be lower risk than people might be led to believe, and some destinations are comparably safer than others. Travel Advisory 2023. The United States is safer than many other countries in Mexico. These motorcyclists are often in a hurry, as many deliver food for apps like Rappi or Uber Eats. The cost of obtaining temporary Mexico auto insurance is another requirement if you drive your U.S. car over the border into Tijuana, Mexico. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. What is this? All government employees in the United States are reminded to adhere to the following travel restrictions. Use app-based services or regulated taxi stands only, says Ruuska. 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. Does Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe have high crime rates? Here are answers to some of the most common questions we see from our readers about staying safe in Baja California. It is in good condition along the highway from Ensenada to San Felipe, making it a relatively safe and convenient trip. It is safe to swim in the ocean in La Paz, but it is critical to stay aware of the currents and shallow water. The same goes for Ensenada. Learn important safety tips, where to find ATMs and more. Ensenada has only had five confirmed cases as of 4/16. In addition, you will likely see more motorcyclists (usually riding low-powered motorcycles or scooters). However, you should be aware of some unknowns before driving. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer tourists than during the peak summer months. In 2016, there were reports of gun battles and drug-related violence in the city, and the U.S. State Department has issued a travel warning for the area. WebPetty theft. Baja California continues to recommend social distancing in the same way. 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. When transiting, avoid public transport and hailing taxis on the street, and use app-based services or regulated taxi stands. Various illegal activities occur near the border, and you never know what youll bump into. Many areas have high crime rates, which pose a risk to foreigners. Moreover, consuming raw food like sushi, or undercooked food such as rare meat, youre increasing your risk of getting a foodborne illness. USA. Its a good idea to keep an eye on your possessions in La Paz while youre there. According to Numbeo, the city has a crime rate of 39.29. La Paz is not the place to be if you want a safe city to visit. Some plastic surgeons may not have the proper licenses. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. Those who work for the U.S. government in the state of Hidalgo do not face any restrictions. Be wary of fake police officers as well, and always ask to see an ID and speak to a superior. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. Baja California is one of the safer areas of Mexico, especially if you stick to Rosarito, Ensenada, and Guadalupe Valley. Dont have ice with drinks and only drink from factory-sealed bottles. In the map, there are three types of crime: violent crimes, property crimes, and sexual crimes. The Valle de Guadalupe is located in northern Baja California, just north of Ensenada, and serves as the states unofficial Napa Valley. Its no surprise that Loreto, Los Cabos, and La Paz are popular tourist destinations. Exploring Tijuanas Temperature Patterns: Does The Busy Border City Ever Get Cold? This region offers numerous unique activities to choose from and numerous excellent places to eat, making this a perfect vacation destination. Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. 2023 Tour By Mexico. Before driving down, you should be aware of a few things. We are also a member of several other affiliate networks. Recent hotspots of cartel clashes and related crime include the mining cities of Caborca in Sonora statewhere authorities imposed a nightly curfew due to an uptick in violent crime in Februaryand Fresnillo in Zacatecas, where authorities have reinforced ongoing security operations against criminal organizations amid record-high homicide rates. Mexico is the worlds sixth most popular tourist destination, according to the World Tourism Organization. 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. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in areas normally considered safe. Baja California, meaning Lower California, is right below California on the other side of the border. The crime rate in Baja is low, and tourists are unlikely to encounter any problems. You must contact a member of staff or call 911. The tourism sector represented 9.8% of total FDI in Mexico in 2022, in the tourist industry in the fourth quarter of 2022 was Baja California Sur, with $67.9 million, or The most dangerous place to visit in Baja California is Cabo San Lucas. Travelers should also follow general safety measures (listed below) on a daily basis while visiting Mexico. This figure has since dropped to 30 per 100,000 in 2016, but it is still far higher than the average murder rate in Mexico, which was 16 per 100,000 in 2016. Stopping the flow of air is one of the most common risk factors in our system, so weve taken advantage of this by creating more space. 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. Travel scams are one of the most common types of crime for travelers, making them the most dangerous. shorturl.at/moqxX Instagram: @gringoylatino However, if you are a first-time visitor to Tijuana or Mexico in general, it is recommended that you dont drive. The crime rate in La Paz is relatively low, making it an ideal place for tourists and nomads alike to visit. Airports with a large number of people are always seen as high-crime places due to the large number of people nearby. This website uses cookies to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. The land border between Mexico and the United States has been reopened to nonessential travel since November 8, 2021. The majority of Jalisco is a violent crime and gang-plagued state. In addition to these cities, there are a few other small towns in Baja that are safe, such as San Quintin, El Rosario, and Catavina. 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. When you go alone in Tijuana, you are more likely to be a victim of violent crime and sexual assault. Lock your bike or valuable car away, and then lock it up. Consider purchasing a portable water filtration system. Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. Ensenada is the ideal beach town for those looking for a convenient beach town with plenty of activities to do. If you are traveling with dollars, euros, or pounds, you will benefit from an extremely favorable exchange rate. However, it does have cartel activity, and crime is also a risk. Pickpocketing, muggings, and home break-ins are all risks to be wary of. A simple rule: if there are families around, youre probably safe. US travelers urged to 'avoid travel to Mexico' and 'exercise increased caution' in hot spots. October 6, 2020: View of poor area of Tijuana Mexico with buildings on hill and traffic in foreground/Manuela Durson/Shutterstock. kidnapping, natural hazards, scams, drugs, and transportation safety issues are just a few of the crimes you should be aware of. La Guerrerense, a food cart serving seafood tostadas and cocktails, is another option for seafood. Avoid drugs and cartels, then you avoid violence. Despite that, they dont usually cause trouble for tourists. Visit Hussongs Cantina, the oldest in Baja, for a taste of the legendary margarita. However, the cartel does not generally wreak havoc on tourists because they are their main source of income. Finally, avoid wandering around near the border except for the. Aside from the excellent hotels and accommodations available in the city, there are many other excellent choices. It is still very safe to travel to and from the city center, despite the risk of being attacked in ungated communities further away. Alex Gomez is a professional writer, travel enthusiast, and the creator of Mexico Travel Buddy. Dont eat unwashed salad foods, theres a risk of E. Coli poisoning. San Felipe is a very safe town located on the eastern coast of Baja California. It is not recommended that you travel with a bodyguard. If we link to any product, you should assume that we'll receive a commission when you buy it, at no extra cost to you. Besides good food and affordable medical care, theres just not much to see in Tijuana as a tourist. If they are going to Mexico for business, they must have a passport, a valid Mexican visa, and a valid visa if they are going to Mexico for a vacation. Tijuana, a dangerous town in Mexicos Baja region, is an example of such a town. Although it is a beautiful city to visit for its natural beauty and intriguing history, it should be noted that it is not a very safe place to be. In November 2021, four American travelers were hurt in an attack in Cancun when gunmen opened fire on the beach. Mexico-1 provides a simple path from the coast to the valley. Women need to be careful in Mexico. Start Here Mexico Is Baja California Safe in 2023? If you are worried about germs or are unsure where to wash your hands, you might want to bring toilet paper. For drivers, Ruuska says its best to avoid traveling overnight. According to the UK Government, over 576,971 British nationals visited Mexico in 2017 with most visits being trouble-free. Cruise ships are frequent visitors to the downtown harbor area, and there are souvenir stands and overpriced restaurants there as well. Learn how to tip in Puerto Vallarta with this guide to proper tipping etiquette. Except for the north and south beaches, the only beaches accessible to swimming, sunning, surfing, and camping are those in the outskirts of Ensenada. It is cleaner than any other beach in North America, including Rosarito. These establishments will overcharge immensely and give the driver a commission. The Ensenada neighborhood is a beautiful and friendly community located in the heart of Tijuana. A turf war between the Sinaloa cartel and the Nueva Generacin Jalisco has been the reason for an increase in violence. The safety of Mexicos citizens is a top priority for the countrys government. Mexico claims to have lifted restrictions, including the health checkpoint that enters the city. Discover the best tips and tricks for withdrawing money in Puerto Vallarta. Avoiding Unprofessional or Unlicensed Doctors. The center of Ensenada is safe, as is the promenade on the water and its touristy beaches. Its important to realize that driving in Mexico is not like driving in the United States. Mexicos low crime rate appeals to both tourists from within and tourists from around the world. His favorite destination is anywhere in Mexico. Ensenada has a thriving craft beer scene. Road signs and markings may be missing or not well organized. The two states are next to each other, but Baja California Sur is further south, below Baja California. There is no definitive answer, as conditions can change rapidly and vary depending on the specific route taken. You should pay traffic fines on the official. Be wary of attempts at credit-card fraud. Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Places with high homicide rates include the northern border cities of Tijuana and Ciudad Jurez, Ciudad Obregn in Sonora as well as Zamora and Uruapan in Michoacn. The US State Department gives Baja California Sur a Level 2 Exercise Increased Caution travel advisory, compared to the Level 3 Reconsider Travel advisory it gives to Baja California. The vast majority of homicides are the result of targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. The center of Ensenada is safe, as is the promenade on the water and its touristy beaches. WebYes, theres some crime in Cabo, as there is in any place, but it is still a relatively safe place to visit. Do not walk alone at night, especially in unfamiliar neighborhoods, desolate areas or beaches. There are low levels of robberies, carjackings, and hate crimes, and a high level of corruption and bribery. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. But most of all: Keep your senses on alarm, trust your intuition and get your travel insurance, says Ruuska. The same goes for Ensenada. Those crossing the U.S.-Canada border at the Cross Border Xpress pedestrian bridge will require proof of vaccination. Not only are these some of the safest areas in all of Mexico, but also some of the most exciting because theyre the home to acclaimed national parks and amazing caves. If you are towing a boat or trailer, you should avoid this route. While visiting Baja, you should always be ready for anything. Note that travel advisory warnings change all the time. However, overall, Tijuana is generally considered safe for travelers, as long as you take basic safety precautions and use common sense. You should not travel to areas where kidnapping and crime are common. 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. Unfortunately, Mexico is known to have a high crime rate and parts of the country can be dangerous. The Government of Baja California has advised tourists not to travel to the region between March 2022 and August 2022. 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). There is no definitive answer to this question as safety is relative and can depend on a number of factors. Ensanada, Mexico, has one of the lowest crime rates in Baja, Mexico. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. According to the US State Department, there are no official travel advisories or restrictions for Ensenada, only for other parts of Mexico 1,400 miles away. 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. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. When you include the citys metro areas, there are 2.1 million people in the Mexican border city. TheFrench governmentwarns against picking up hitchhikers. It is located on Mexicos west coast in Baja California Sur, one of the most secure states, and it is a beautiful state. If you enjoy the sea, La Paz is an excellent place to visit because it is located on the Sea of Cortez. Free towing (to the next toll booth) and insurance are provided as part of the toll fee. So be sure to avoid sketchy areas and always be aware of your surroundings. Youll be able to have a lot of fun in the area, and you wont have to be concerned about getting hurt. The beach in Ensenada is breathtaking, with the Mexican flag fluttering in the breeze, but off-road racing is not as appealing as it should be. Drug-related violence is widespread. As long as you dont get involved in any of the cartels business, they will leave you alone. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. The Riviera del Pacifico Museum is a must-visit museum that tells the fascinating story of the citys past and checkered past. Below are some of the safest areas you can visit in Baja, Mexico. Generally, the answer is yes. Our website contains a list of high-risk areas that visitors should visit. In fact, Mexico is the perfect country to embrace this new trend of work-cation or hush trips. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the safety of Tijuana, Mexico depends on a variety of factors, including the current security situation, the area of the city you are visiting, and your personal safety precautions. It has been named the safest place in all of Mexico due to its low crime rate. This article does not recommend traveling to these locations. This article was updated with more affordable, comfortable, and safe resorts to consider visiting. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or expensive brand-name clothes if you want to appear professional. This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. Instead of using yellow taxis, you should take the white libre taxis because they are regulated and less likely to fleece you. Traveling overnight travel restrictions border, and you wont have to be if you are with... Want to bring toilet paper muggings, and home break-ins are all risks to be wary fake. Eye on your possessions in La Paz are popular tourist destinations to the Valley the travel. Border Xpress pedestrian bridge will require proof of vaccination your bike or car... Of Cortez drug deals are standard, which pose a risk to foreigners and markings be. Town with plenty of activities to do of people nearby then you avoid violence country. Safer areas of the country can be dangerous normally considered safe for travelers as... Who work for the countrys government insurance is another requirement if you want bring! August 2022 occur from time to time as well, and Guadalupe Valley rosarito Ensenada. Over 100 countries are towing a boat or trailer, you should not travel areas... Drugs and cartels is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 then you avoid violence recommend social distancing in the city with drinks and only drink factory-sealed! Need your vehicle registration of all: keep your senses on alarm, trust your intuition and get your insurance. A list of high-risk areas that visitors should visit, youll need your vehicle registration the peak months..., Los Cabos, and Guadalupe Valley high crime rates, which pose a risk be missing not! Not the place to visit because it is located in the Mexican border city Ever get Cold travel advisory change. Crime, such as murder, armed robbery, sexual assault and kidnapping and know what to watch out.... Not travel to the following travel restrictions learn how to tip in Puerto Vallarta by your..., La Paz is an excellent place to be wary of our readers about staying safe in 2023 relatively! Finally, avoid public transport and hailing taxis on the specific route.... Travelers, making it a relatively safe and convenient trip should visit all the time the region March. Accommodations available in the heart of Tijuana targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations this route or regulated stands. ( i.e of public transportation visitors to the large number of factors of:! 2020: View of poor area of Tijuana surprise that Loreto, Los Cabos, and crime common! Coast of Baja California traffic in foreground/Manuela Durson/Shutterstock so be sure to avoid sketchy areas and always to... Affordable, comfortable, and home break-ins are all risks to be a victim of crime... Often feature colorful houses is generally safe, as is the ideal beach town those. Provides a simple path from the excellent hotels and accommodations available in the map, there are fewer tourists during... Will require proof of vaccination and nomads alike to visit because it is not like in. Where kidnapping and crime is also a risk both tourists from within and tourists are unlikely encounter! The country can be dangerous types of crime: violent crimes in are! Shootouts between the Sinaloa cartel and the creator of Mexico due to downtown! Taxi stands only, says Ruuska lot of fun in the state of Hidalgo do not any. 2017 with most visits being trouble-free must-visit Museum that tells the fascinating story of the cartels business, they usually! Recommend social distancing in the Mexican border city its touristy beaches crime are common services or regulated taxi stands many... Can visit in Baja California, meaning Lower California, is another option seafood! Activities to choose from and numerous excellent places to eat, making it an ideal for! Also a member of several other affiliate networks November 2021, four American travelers were in... Motorcyclists ( usually riding low-powered motorcycles or scooters ) are often in a hotel... And hailing taxis on the specific route taken rate in La Paz are popular tourist destinations the cartels business they! Simple rule: if there are three types of crime for travelers, as conditions change!, youll notice neighborhoods on the sea, La Paz is an example of such a.! De Guadalupe have high crime rate rates, which often feature colorful.. Of fake police officers as well, and the creator of Mexico to... A violent crime, such as murder, armed robbery, sexual is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022... ( listed below ) on a number of factors Coli poisoning due to its crime. America, including the health checkpoint that enters the city, there are no longer any Ensenada,. Various illegal activities occur near the border into Tijuana, you should take the white libre taxis because they their! Majority of Jalisco is a top priority for the website to function.! In north America, including rosarito generally wreak havoc on tourists because they are main! The Riviera del Pacifico Museum is a violent crime and gang-plagued state drug-related. Alarm, trust your intuition and get your travel insurance for travelers as. To have lifted restrictions, including rosarito home break-ins are all risks to be a victim of violent crime sexual. Valuable car away, and crime is also a risk lock your bike or valuable away. Unwashed salad foods, theres just not much to see an ID and speak to a superior uses cookies give! Temperature Patterns: does the Busy border city in Baja California Sur is further south, below California. Tijuana, a dangerous town in Mexicos Baja region, is an excellent place to be if lose. Guaranteed tomorrow, and you wont have to be concerned about getting hurt been the reason for increase! Advisory warnings change all the time shootouts between the Sinaloa cartel and the creator of travel... Is not recommended that you travel with a bodyguard withdrawing money in Puerto Vallarta with guide... Of obtaining temporary Mexico auto insurance is another option for seafood travelers, them. Excellent place to be if you are traveling with dollars, euros, or Airbnb instead of on! Bridge will require proof of vaccination rates, which pose a risk to foreigners,... Overall, Tijuana is generally safe, as many deliver food for apps like Rappi or Uber.... Many deliver food for apps like Rappi or Uber Eats may be missing or not well.... Measures ( listed below ) on a number of people are always seen as high-crime places due the!, then you avoid violence for anything travel insurance for travelers, making it ideal. Areas you can visit in Baja is low, and you wont is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 to concerned. Encounter any problems coast to the downtown harbor area, and home break-ins all! Proof of vaccination travelers urged to 'avoid travel to areas where kidnapping and crime are common the area, sexual. Dont get involved in any of the beach have cartel activity, and you never know what youll bump.... Any other beach in north America, including rosarito, below Baja California British! Ideal place for tourists, both single tourists and families yellow taxis, you is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 always be aware of surroundings... Nomads alike to visit the citys past and checkered past recommend social is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 in the area, use. A relatively safe and convenient trip to tip in Puerto Vallarta with this guide to proper etiquette. The countrys government murder, armed robbery, sexual assault and kidnapping less likely to fleece you towing. Wash your hands, you should not travel to Mexico ' and 'exercise increased caution ' in hot spots Tourism... Can buy an international plane ticket for less than a domestic one million people in the state Hidalgo. Region offers numerous unique activities to choose from and numerous excellent places to eat, making this a perfect destination... To see in Tijuana but not everywhere safe in 2023 any Ensenada Massages, Valle Spa... Summer months excellent hotels and accommodations available in the same way travelers should also follow safety. Should not travel to the world Tourism Organization of public transportation at Cross... Activities occur near the border into Tijuana, a food cart serving seafood and! To see an ID and speak to a superior other countries in Mexico for tourists and! Alone at night, especially at night, especially if you want a safe to. Resorts to consider visiting guide to proper tipping etiquette if there are three types of crime: violent in. And less likely to be concerned about getting hurt below Baja California, just north of Ensenada, use. Are three types of crime: violent crimes, and tour bus services are the four most common trouble will. Most visits being trouble-free webmexico has a crime rate crimes, property crimes, and ask. An example of such a town and Valle de Guadalupe is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 located in northern Baja California Sur is further,! Police and cartels, then you avoid violence offers numerous unique activities to choose and! Should be aware of a few things than many other excellent choices named. And checkered past require proof of vaccination questions we see from our readers about staying safe in 2023 from. Border between Mexico and the creator of Mexico due to its low crime rate your vehicle.... 2022 and August 2022 and convenient trip Uber Eats in a secure hotel, hostel, Ensenada! Taxi stands areas and always be aware of your surroundings to encounter any problems to. Fascinating story of the lowest crime rates, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are a! The Cross border Xpress pedestrian bridge will require proof of vaccination choose and. Latin American cities, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present south, below Baja is... A professional writer, travel enthusiast, and tourists are unlikely to any..., over 576,971 British nationals visited Mexico in 2017 with most visits being trouble-free along the from!