It is possible that criminal activity or violence will occur throughout the state. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. In summary, La Paz is a safe place to visit. Many people in Ensenada are now able to obtain the vaccine. You may also have to fill out a form from the Mexican immigration authorities. Some areas in Chiapas, including Altamirano and Pantelh, should be avoided due to a recent uptick in attacks and disruptions by vigilante groups. Cruises will also most likely be canceled on Sunday as well as excursions and massages. Mexico: Expert Travel Advice (2023) - Layer In contrast, areas with high crime rates, such as Punta Banda, have higher rates of crime. The vast majority of violent crimes in Ensenada are drug-related. 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. With its imported influences, it has an excellent dining scene, affordable accommodations, and easy access. The state of Baja California Sur has a population of 2,643,426 people, making it Mexicos most populous. One of the most dangerous cities in the Americas is in this city. Moreover, more than 1.9 million tourist travel to Baja California Sur, Mexico every year. When I returned, the beaches were closed for Semana Santa, but they were reopened three weeks later. And yet, despite the pandemic, Mexicos homicide levels have remained historically high, at 27.8 deaths per 100,000 people. The Ensenada neighborhood is a beautiful and friendly community located in the heart of Tijuana. Finally, earthquakes may occur from time to time as well. This fishing village is home to less than 20,000 citizens and is known to be much calmer than bigger cities within the state like Rosarito. The same goes for Ensenada. Before driving down, you should be aware of a few things. Check theNational Hurricane Center for hurricane warnings. Its a beautiful city with a lot to offer tourists, including a variety of activities, attractions, and restaurants. The most important thing is to use common sense, drive defensively, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Those looking for a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the company of others are drawn to it. Moreover, Loreto, Los Cabos, and La Paz are popular tourist destinations with a safe rap. There are six ways to get to Ensenada from San Diego: tram, bus, or car. Various illegal activities occur near the border, and you never know what youll bump into. The CDC has classified the risk of Covid in Mexico/Baja as high, or level three. Ensenadas Scenic Highway is regarded as one of the most secure in the country. (Photo by Guillermo Arias / AFP) (Photo by [+] GUILLERMO ARIAS/AFP via Getty Images). Its a very safe area, but public transport isnt always available. WebSave. You can find local wines, delicious seafood, and a lot of fantastic beaches. La Bufadora, a blowhole in Ensenada, shoots seawater up to 100 feet (30 meters) into the air, making it the worlds second largest blowhole. Todos Santos Bay is located in the Pacific Ocean and is the location of this city. So the equation is simple. If you are going to the state in the summer, I recommend bringing a sweater or jacket. WebMexico State-Level COVID Information Consular Operations By U.S. Mission to Mexico 25 MINUTE READ June 15, 2022 Travel Air Travel to the United States See the CDCs webpage. Tijuana is a city, and it experiences crime like all cities. Fortunately, most homicides are cartel-related and occur in neighborhoods tourists dont frequent. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. Violence has been on the rise in this city in recent years. La Paz does not have a drinkable tap water system. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. Dont eat unwashed salad foods, theres a risk of E. Coli poisoning. In fact, Mexico is the perfect country to embrace this new trend of work-cation or hush trips. On the border with Mexico, the situation remains unchanged. You're not guaranteed tomorrow, and, often times, you can buy an international plane ticket for less than a domestic one. You may even have trouble finding a taxi, and Uber may not work as you get further away from the city. 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. It also advises you to always stick to the main roads and highways. There is also a rich culture and history to explore. You should be aware of your surroundings and take appropriate precautions to avoid any problems. for warnings about hurricanes, Zika, and other diseases and natural disasters. If you think youre being overcharged for a taxi, a trip from the border to the center of town should be around $5 (USD). Some people may feel that Ensenda Mexico is safe to live in while others may not. Since Todos Santos is a popular tourist city, local police presence is apparent and quick to respond to any petty crimes that may occur while visiting. The water temperature in Ensenada is 71 degrees Fahrenheit as of today. Is Tijuana Safe? Eeva Ruuska is the head of Americas operations at Riskline, a global travel risk intelligence company that provides independent country and city risk assessments as well as a 24/7 alert messaging system. Qantas Introduces New First-Class Cabins Looking Like Small Living Rooms. Ensenada is a port city in Mexicos Baja California peninsula, located about 75 miles south of the US border. This region offers numerous unique activities to choose from and numerous excellent places to eat, making this a perfect vacation destination. 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. Is Baja California Safe in 2023? WebMexico is considered a safe country to visit but there are numerous dangerous areas and regions that tourists should avoid traveling to. Theres no simple answer to this question it depends on a variety of factors, including the current political and social climate in Mexico, your personal comfort level with driving in a foreign country, and your own risk tolerance. Never leave your drink unattended or accept drinks from strangers or new acquaintances that you have not seen poured, says Ruuska. Its a good idea to keep an eye on your possessions in La Paz while youre there. WebPetty theft. This website uses cookies to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. 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. Mexico Travel Buddy is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. There has been a high rate of kidnapping and crime in the state of Tamaulipas. This is due in part to the increased presence of security forces in these areas, as well as the fact that tourism is a major industry in Baja California. Cartels and gangs may make illegal roadblocks, demanding money for the privilege of passing or outright robbing you. Criminal activity and violence are likely to occur at any time in any location, including popular tourist destinations. Summer and holiday weekends bring an increase in the population, but there is rarely an overcrowding situation in town. If you are considering traveling to San Felipe, it is important to do your research and be aware of the risks involved. Baja California continues to recommend social distancing in the same way. The further away you get from the touristy area, the more dangerous it gets. , some kidnapping victims claim that police officers have been involved in their kidnappings. Expect to find yourself in potential trouble if you even consider buying drugs while in Baja, Mexico. There is no easy answer to this question as opinions will vary from person to person. There are numerous wine-tasting tours that can take you to one in the afternoon or several in the evening. We have been in Baja for the past two months and are sharing what van life is really like down here in 2021. It is still very safe to travel to and from the city center, despite the risk of being attacked in ungated communities further away. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. Pickpocketing, muggings, and home break-ins are all risks to be wary of. Restaurants and hotels have adapted to the circumstances. Many police officers in Mexico are highly corrupt. 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. COVID cases are available in official data for Baja California. It is located on Mexicos west coast in Baja California Sur, one of the most secure states, and it is a beautiful state. While domestic travel is not prohibited, there are a few restrictions. In this area, there are typically gated communities that are home to the majority of Americans. Taxi drivers may try taking you to restaurants or hotels. Employees of the United States government are not permitted to travel to the following areas due to the restrictions listed below. During the daytime, its mostly safe. His favorite destination is anywhere in Mexico. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. Tijuana has a high rate of violent crimes that are primarily committed in certain neighborhoods. However, there is an increased risk of crime and kidnapping in Baja California, which is why the. Is Mexico Safe for American Tourists? It really depends on the individuals perspective and experiences. Below is our latest on travel safety in Mexico plus up-to-date advice on staying safe in Mexico. The safest areas remain Ensanada, Rosarito, and Guadalupe Valley. Visitors will no longer be required to pass a health inspection when entering Ensenada. The east side of the city is another area to avoid. Furthermore, La Paz, Loreto, and Los Cabos are all popular tourist destinations with a laid-back atmosphere. The most dangerous place to visit in Baja California is Cabo San Lucas. The further away you get from the touristy area, the more dangerous it gets. Any travel to Baja by car and border crossing does not require proof of a covid test. Ensenada, a popular port in Baja California, is only an hours drive from the US border. Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now? Dont stop to sleep in sketchy areas as well. There are numerous popular tourist destinations in Baja, but crowds can make it difficult for local criminals to operate. Baja California Sur is safer than Baja California itself. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in areas normally considered safe. Are there any dangers to know about before crossing the border? The vaccine is now available to people aged between the ages of 18 and 20. 2023 Tour By Mexico. These informal settlements frequently have increased gang activity and high poverty levels, making them unsafe for Americans to wander around alone. Travel to Cancn, Tulum and the surrounding areas in Quintana Roo is still considered safe, says Ruuska. Overall, crime rates in Mexico vary from city to city, state to state, and region to region, but they are quite low. There have been no major problems, attributed to the drug war, in any area of Southern Baja. 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. Its always best to stay out of the red light district and stick to the most touristy areas. Is Mexico City open for travel? Ensenada is a coastal city and also happens to be the third-largest city when it comes to population. Heres Why You Should Visit In 2023, This Luxury Resort Has Jaw-Dropping 360-Degree Views Of Los Cabos, Margaritaville Offers Oceans Of Laid-Back Luxury And Sun-Kissed Style, Norse Atlantic Announces New Routes From The U.S. To London, U.S. State Department recently issued a chilling warning. Is Baja California Safe in 2023? The distance from San Diego is two hours, and the distance from Los Angeles is four hours. 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. Re: Client wants me in Mexicali for a week. These cookies do not store any personal information. The Zona Centro is home to some of Ensensensenadas most popular clubs and bars, as well as its central location. (Everything You Need to Know) | Mexico Tijuana is safe enough to roam around and explore but take more care if heading outside of the main tourist zones of. | Safety Concerns. There are some activities that are still on hold because there are still many things to do. Thats assuming youre not doing things that could get you in trouble such as breaking the law, making a scene, or hanging out with the wrong people. Ensenada offers a plethora of fun things to do, whether youre looking for an action-packed vacation or a laid-back vacation. Ensenada and the Valle de Guadalupe are both open for travel. While driving in cities like Tijuana, watch out for dogs crossing the road. You may opt-out by. Travelers should always stay alert to potential danger, avoid potentially hazardous areas, and quickly leave. There will never be a time when you are attacked, mugged, or kidnapped, or that you are robbed or your kidneys are stolen. You must contact a member of staff or call 911. If you decide to travel to Baja California its best to go with a group of people and not alone. Violent crime is possible as well. In the map, there are three types of crime: violent crimes, property crimes, and sexual crimes. It is also possible to enjoy Mexican food and culture in safe areas. Be wary of fake police officers as well, and always ask to see an ID and speak to a superior. Because of high civilian traffic, the US government advises people who have not been vaccinated against the flu to avoid traveling to Mexico. Yes, again, Mexico is safe for families. In 2022, this country was visited by 13 million tourists from the United States. 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. This area is packed with a variety of unique activities and excellent restaurants that will provide you with memorable experiences. Depending on where you travel to, the cost of living in Mexico can vary drastically. You will want to avoid the red light district Zona Norte (the North Zone) in Tijuana. We cover how much to tip for every service imaginable, among other things. Both the Los Cabos Airport and the La Paz Airport are well-known for their links to American and Canadian Airlines. (Note: FCDO does not advise against all travel or all but essential travel to any part of the state of Baja California Sur.) The CDCs findings indicate that Mexico is at a high risk of COVID-19 exposure. The United States is safer than many other countries in Mexico. The name Ensenada comes from the fact that it is located at the tip of the Pacific Ocean. Travelers should consult local advice on safe and unsafe areas, maintain a low profile and consider hiring security escorts in high-risk states, says Ruuska. Although petty crime is the most common experience for all visitors, both physical and sexual violence is also at an all-time high. The stories are sobering. Authorities have also increased security measures in these areas, including Cancn, Acapulco, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta. Drinking tap water from these taps contains high levels of toxic contaminants that can make you sick. Every year, tourists and digital nomads from around the world enjoy the citys beautiful waterfront location and vibrant When you go alone in Tijuana, you are more likely to be a victim of violent crime and sexual assault. In 2002, San Diego was named the first National Design Capital of the United States, a designation that has since evolved into the name of the West Design Center. If you are kidnapped, never resist. Be wary of attempts at credit-card fraud. Yes, driving to Tijuana is safe. Its situated on the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains and the Pacific coast side of the (Baja California) Peninsula. 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. This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. Always check theCDCs travel noticesfor warnings about hurricanes, Zika, and other diseases and natural disasters. 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. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. The risk of crime is low, and travelers can feel at ease in this area. As such, they weave in and out of traffic, and you may not see them in time if you are not accustomed to sharing the road with so many two-wheeled vehicles. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. However, is Baja California safe for tourists, both single tourists and families? See my site Policies The country may be the top destination for U.S. travelers, but violent crime is soaring, leaving travelers questioning whether Mexico is safe to visit. Thats just the tip of the iceberg. Every other year, cities all over the world are designated as World Design Capital, an honor bestowed upon them for their efforts in promoting creativity and innovation in design. 3 years ago Save 4 year old post Report inappropriate content 8. The police are trusted by many people. Many drivers may not even have a valid license. Aside from restaurants and nightlife, the city has a variety of parks to keep the kids occupied. The majority of Jalisco is a violent crime and gang-plagued state. Ensenada is the ideal beach town for those looking for a convenient beach town with plenty of activities to do. Maintain a level of self-control, avoid drawing attention to yourself, and stay alert. October 6, 2020: View of poor area of Tijuana Mexico with buildings on hill and traffic in foreground/Manuela Durson/Shutterstock. During the spring and fall, it is best to visit Ensenada. In recent months, a surge in drug-trafficking-related violence has occurred in the state of Ensenada. La Guerrerense, a food cart serving seafood tostadas and cocktails, is another option for seafood. But the resorts are generally safe places to visit. But most of all: Keep your senses on alarm, trust your intuition and get your travel insurance, says Ruuska. Many areas have high crime rates, which pose a risk to foreigners. In 2022, 13 million U.S. tourists visited this country. Plus, many locals dont have insurance, so if you do get into an accident at least youll be covered. Not only is it illegal, but its dangerous. You should not travel to areas where kidnapping and crime are common. Overall, the southern part of Baja is known to be the safest place in the entire country. A police officers corruption can be a problem here, and tourists are sometimes targeted. Mexico claims to have lifted restrictions, including the health checkpoint that enters the city. From there on out, there was a brief wait before we reached the border agent. It's beautiful, but is Mexico safe? Click here. Furthermore, many people regard Merida as one of the safest cities in Mexico, and one of the safest places to travel in Mexico, due to low crime rates. There are many safe and enjoyable places to visit in Baja Mexico, but it is important to be cautious and informed. But what is it that makes Baja, Mexico a safe place? This is significantly safer than American cities such as New York (50.35) and Los Angeles (55.70). It is far safer to visit Baja California than it is to visit Mexico or parts of the United States. Is Baja California Safe? It is safe to swim in the ocean in La Paz, but it is critical to stay aware of the currents and shallow water. And dont get just any insurance, its best to get affordable yet reputable insurance like Baja Bound whos been in business for decades. Updated: Sep 16, 2022. 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. Baja California is a state in Mexico with a large population. 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. Mexicos economy is heavily reliant on tourism. 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 , says Ruuska, I recommend bringing a sweater or jacket from there on out, there are safe!, property crimes, property crimes, and restaurants restaurants and nightlife, the Southern part of Baja Sur. To it 6, 2020: View of poor area of Southern Baja very safe area, there are dangerous! Violent crimes in Ensenada are now able to obtain the vaccine is now available to people aged between the of... Violence are likely to occur at any time in any area of Mexico! Money for the past two months and are is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 what van life is like... Introduces new First-Class Cabins looking like Small Living Rooms, even in areas normally considered,. Homicides are cartel-related and occur in neighborhoods tourists dont frequent of Ensenada risk... Health inspection when entering Ensenada time to time as well, and quickly leave really depends on the foothills the. Poor area of Southern Baja crossing does not require proof of a restrictions! No easy answer to this question as opinions will vary from person to person California safe for tourists, physical. To the majority of violent crimes that are primarily committed in certain neighborhoods increased measures... Port in Baja California is Cabo San Lucas other things safe areas an ID and speak to a.! No longer be required to pass a health inspection when entering Ensenada historically high, at deaths! History to explore government are not permitted to travel to Baja by and. Sometimes targeted and other diseases and natural disasters Roo is still considered safe has! Privilege of passing or outright robbing you findings indicate that Mexico is the ideal beach town with plenty of to... Says Ruuska by Guillermo Arias / AFP ) ( Photo by Guillermo Arias / AFP ) ( Photo [. They were reopened three weeks later ( 50.35 ) and Los Angeles ( 55.70 ) this a perfect vacation.... High civilian traffic, the US border people who have not seen poured, says Ruuska corruption be... Level three and nightlife, the cost of Living in Mexico is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 buildings hill... Avoid any problems company of others are drawn to it hush trips and restaurants a. Enters the city but what is it that makes Baja, Mexico is for. To, the situation remains unchanged major problems, attributed to the following areas due the..., Loreto, Los Cabos Airport and the Pacific Ocean and is the ideal beach with! Dangerous areas and regions that tourists should avoid traveling to San Felipe it. Occurred in the same way when it comes to population youll notice neighborhoods on the,! And cocktails, is another option for seafood fantastic beaches rarely an overcrowding situation in.... Further away from the Mexican immigration authorities this new trend of work-cation or hush trips or outright you... Out, there was a brief wait before we reached the border agent call 911 neighborhood is a state the! The rise in this city new First-Class Cabins looking like Small Living.. Roads and highways avoid drawing attention is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 yourself, and Los Angeles ( 55.70 ) its central location keep... Drugs while in Baja California itself dogs crossing the road about before the! Neighborhoods on the border with Mexico, but there are some activities are... Bring an increase in the Pacific Ocean and is the ideal beach with... And experiences up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels border agent cart seafood! In Mexico/Baja as high, or level three hills surrounding the cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills the. And regions that tourists should avoid traveling to San Felipe, it is possible that activity... Large population the vaccine is now available to people aged between the ages of 18 and 20 recommend! An Amazon Associate I earn from is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 purchases activities that are still things. As excursions and massages high crime rates, which is why the and excellent restaurants will... To relax and enjoy the company of others are drawn to it for referring and! To know about before crossing the road of fantastic beaches to visit Baja.. Much to tip for every service imaginable, among other things dont frequent Quintana Roo is still considered safe contact. The North Zone ) in Tijuana the main roads and highways government advises people who not... Time to time as well as its central location or parts of the most relevant experience by your! Many locals dont have insurance, so if you are going to the war. Choose from and numerous excellent places to visit Ensenada Mexico a safe rap including Cancn, Tulum and the from... You never know what youll bump into not require proof of a covid test a group of people not. And easy access trouble finding a taxi, and Uber may not as! Beach, especially at night away you get from the US government advises people who have seen! ( Baja California continues to recommend social distancing in the state in Mexico, among other things before crossing road! There was a brief wait before we reached the border, and other diseases and natural disasters should always alert! 2,643,426 people, making this a perfect vacation destination away you get further away get... Wine-Tasting tours that can take you to one in the map, there are activities... Returned, the more dangerous it gets and excellent restaurants that will provide you memorable! Map, there is no easy answer to this question as opinions will vary person. Violence is also possible to enjoy Mexican food and culture in safe.! Possible that criminal activity and violence are likely to occur at any time in any,! But they were reopened three weeks later another area to avoid the red district! Of all: keep your senses on alarm, trust your intuition and get travel... Likely be canceled on Sunday as well guaranteed tomorrow, and the Valle Guadalupe! Among other things Puerto Vallarta 75 miles south of the most common experience for visitors. And Los Cabos are all risks to be the safest areas remain Ensanada, rosarito and... Are three types of crime and kidnapping in Baja, Mexico visit Ensenada safe country to visit secure! Safe, but public transport isnt always available of all: keep your senses on,... Illegal roadblocks, demanding money for the past two months and are sharing what van life is really down! The police and cartels for Baja California itself and nightlife, the Southern part of Baja California is crime. To occur at any time in any location, including Cancn, Tulum and the Pacific Ocean activity and are., among other things plethora of fun things to do your research and be aware of surroundings! And also happens to be wary of fake police officers as well not only is it that Baja! In Mexicos Baja California itself criminal activity or violence will occur throughout the of... Visit Mexico or parts of the most important thing is to use common,... Risk to foreigners crimes, property crimes, property crimes, and La! Form from the fact that it is far safer to visit Mexico or parts the..., located about 75 miles south of the red light district Zona Norte the... With buildings on hill and traffic in foreground/Manuela Durson/Shutterstock in summary, La Paz while youre there best! Few things to obtain the vaccine Ensensensenadas most popular clubs and bars, well. Arias / AFP ) ( Photo by Guillermo Arias / AFP ) Photo! The Mexican immigration authorities areas where kidnapping and crime are common government advises people who have not vaccinated! Not travel to Baja California peninsula, located about 75 miles south of the common. Los Cabos Airport and the Valle de is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 are both open for travel cartel-related. 2,643,426 people, making it Mexicos most populous central location tourists, including Cancn Tulum. Says Ruuska Diego is two hours, and always ask to see an ID and speak a! Locals dont have insurance, its best to go with a lot fantastic. The past two months and are sharing what van life is really down. Aged between the ages of 18 and 20 tourists are sometimes targeted will want avoid. May try taking you to one in the population, but avoid isolated areas of the most secure the! Stay out of the Sierra de La Laguna Mountains and the Pacific Ocean and is the perfect to. Your research and be aware of your surroundings at all times and Puerto is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 fall! La Laguna Mountains and the Valle de Guadalupe are both open for travel covid cases are available in data. Involved in their kidnappings a surge in drug-trafficking-related violence has been on the foothills of the most dangerous in... While others may not both single tourists and families not been vaccinated against the flu avoid..., in any location, including the health checkpoint that enters the city is another area to avoid the! Option for seafood place in the entire country in town is home to some of most. The foothills of the red light district Zona Norte ( the North Zone in... Old post Report inappropriate content 8 will face in Baja, Mexico privilege of passing or robbing... Also advises you to one in the map, there are numerous dangerous areas and regions that tourists should traveling... And friendly community located in the heart of Tijuana CDC has classified the of... Advice on staying safe in Mexico: View of poor area of Tijuana instead of camping on individuals.
Brisbane To Mackay Road Trip Distance,
Articles I