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. 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. Furthermore, the streets of Baja are littered with potholes and stray dogs, so always be observant while driving and drive during the day if possible. However, if you are a first-time visitor to Tijuana or Mexico in general, it is recommended that you dont drive. Petty theft is the most common security threat travelers will face across the country.. You may opt-out by. As a tourist, youre most likely to come across petty crimes like theft. The Mexican government has been engaged in a prolonged struggle with drug cartels, and this has led to increased violence in some areas. If you choose to travel to Mexico, make sure to do your research ahead of time and plan accordingly. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. Some prostitutes may drug and rob men who visit them, and thieves may operate in the area. 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. Drug-related violence is widespread. 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. Ensenada and the Valle de Guadalupe are both open for travel. Considering the size of Baja, Mexico, and the population factor, the crime rate is actually relatively low compared to other areas in Mexico. It is never a good idea to travel without the proper travel equipment. US citizens should also register with the US Embassy in Mexico before traveling to Ensenada. 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. | Safety Concerns, Written by: Author Andrew Helling |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. Ensenada is the ideal beach town for anyone looking for a laid-back beach vacation. A visit to San Felipe is an excellent way to unwind and spend quality time with friends. According to a recent official research, Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas, and San Jose del Cabo are the safest destinations in Mexico. When traveling, it is critical to exercise caution. The further away you get from the touristy area, the more dangerous it gets. Its a good idea to keep an eye on your possessions in La Paz while youre there. However, overall, Tijuana is generally considered safe for travelers, as long as you take basic safety precautions and use common sense. Before driving down, you should be aware of a few things. Is Baja California, Mexico, a good place to drive? Mexico is open to travelers. Here are 10 reasons why! Millions of travelers visit Mexico every year, and Government employees working in Baja and Mexicali Valley in Baja Norte are advised to reconsider traveling to these areas as a result of a recent State Department travel alert. You should not travel to areas where kidnapping and crime are common. The Cantarell Field, the worlds second largest offshore oil field, is also located in the state. 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. Summer and holiday weekends bring an increase in the population, but there is rarely an overcrowding situation in town. However, is Baja California safe for tourists, both single tourists and families? The quickest way from San Diego to Ensenada is to drive for one hour and 43 minutes, which costs $15 $22. The city is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, making it easy to see and hear the sounds of the sea. Traveling to Baja is not dangerous as long as you come prepared and know what to watch out for. In 2022, 13 million U.S. tourists visited this country. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or expensive brand-name clothes if you want to appear professional. Nonetheless, tourists must exercise caution and take precautions whenever possible. The east side of the city is another area to avoid. If you think youre being overcharged for a taxi, a trip from the border to the center of town should be around $5 (USD). In 2022, this country was visited by 13 million tourists from the United States. 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. If you are kidnapped, never resist. Some travelers on a day trip to tijuana feel like San Diego however those not used to Mexican culture will find it very foreign. Those looking for a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the company of others are drawn to it. Ensenada has a thriving craft beer scene. Despite that, they dont usually cause trouble for tourists. It is far safer to visit Baja California than it is to visit Mexico or parts of the United States. 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. Mexicos economy is heavily reliant on tourism. Pickpocketing, muggings, and home break-ins are all risks to be wary of. Violent crime rates in big cities, such as Mexico City, where there is a high population density, are extremely low. La Paz does not have a drinkable tap water system. If you want to take expensive equipment such as cameras or smartphones, keep them hidden, locked away and on your person. It is possible that criminal activity or violence will occur throughout the state. Is Ensensensenada, Mexico safe to travel to? There are no longer any Ensenada Massages, Valle Mobile Spa, or Ensenada Excursions available. Make certain you dont get bogged down in the details and ruin the fun. While domestic travel is not prohibited, there are a few restrictions. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. Withdrawing Money in Puerto Vallarta (ATM Tips & Safety). If you are going to the state in the summer, I recommend bringing a sweater or jacket. This article does not recommend traveling to these locations. Due to it being on the border, various malicious actors are present, which only increases crime levels. Ensenada, formerly Ensenada de Todos Santos, is a city in the northwest corner of Baja California, Mexico. Many travelers make the trip to Baja California in their vehicle as its right across the border from California. Crime has increased in the state of Coahuila, so there has been increased caution. Inform a family member or friend that you are traveling to Baja California, and update them about your movements. This region offers numerous unique activities to choose from and numerous excellent places to eat, making this a perfect vacation destination. Baja California is a state in Mexico with a large population. 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 All states of Mexico are considered fully safe except for Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, and Aguascalientes. Mexican Resorts Are Safe Places To Stay. The name Ensenada comes from the fact that it is located at the tip of the Pacific Ocean. Baja is a peninsula in northwestern Mexico that is safe for tourists. When it comes to exploring the cities in Baja, there are a few very simple rules you should follow to increase your safety. This is a far safer place to live than New York and Los Angeles, two large American cities. 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. Overall crime rates in Mexico are quite low, despite varying city, state, and region crime rates. I would appreciate it if you would send me a private message. The crime and kidnapping prevalent throughout Baja California make it difficult to live a peaceful life. Watch out for drivers who are speeding or driving while drunk. Be wary of fake police officers as well, and always ask to see an ID and speak to a superior. For drivers, Ruuska says its best to avoid traveling overnight. Aside from the excellent hotels and accommodations available in the city, there are many other excellent choices. Mexico is the worlds sixth most popular tourist destination, according to the World Tourism Organization. Ensenada is only 70 miles from the border at a distance of 1.5 hours. 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. (Photo by Guillermo Arias / AFP) (Photo by [+] GUILLERMO ARIAS/AFP via Getty Images). During the daytime, its mostly safe. | Safety Concerns. Among the most common crimes committed in Baja are drug trafficking, money laundering, and bribery. in 2 reviews The room also has a safe, which I had no use for but it could be useful info for some readers. With its imported influences, it has an excellent dining scene, affordable accommodations, and easy access. are not foreigners but Mexican nationals, but its essential not to wander around alone at night. It is not necessary to have a health checkpoint or to travel if you have a negative test result. However, it does have cartel activity, and crime is also a risk. CDC requirement for negative COVID-19 test prior to air travel: requirement suspended as of 12:01AM ET on June 12, 2022. Taxi drivers may try taking you to restaurants or hotels. Keep an eye on the situation and avoid taking drugs or cartels. The Condition Office current the Vacation Advisory for Mexico on Oct. 5, which is done regularly. Does Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe have high crime rates? Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. Baja, Mexico is safe because the people are friendly and welcoming, and the crime although prevalent is usually petty. Its important to realize that driving in Mexico is not like driving in the United States. Leaving things out is a sign of carelessness, particularly if it is a city. Baja California is far safer than the rest of Mexico and the United States. Featuring coastal towns like Rosarito and cities like Tijuana, Baja California has a lot to offer in terms of beaches, nightlife, and family fun not to mention its fantastic food, such as the famous fish tacos. As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. Also, like Tijuana, Ensenada has a Zona de Tolerancia a tolerance zone where prostitution is legal. The state of Baja California Sur has a population of 2,643,426 people, making it Mexicos most populous. Every year, tourists and digital nomads from around the world enjoy the citys beautiful waterfront location and vibrant You can catch the bus at one of the approximately 230 Greyhound stations in the United States. Drive the beautiful roads of Baja and enjoy the scenery, while also getting the most out of your visit. Violence has been on the rise in this city in recent years. You will want to avoid the red light district Zona Norte (the North Zone) in Tijuana. Alex Gomez is a professional writer, travel enthusiast, and the creator of Mexico Travel Buddy. This part of Mexico is not attributed to the drug war and has had no major problems. 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. The U.S. Embassy has issued a travel warning for Tijuana and Rosarito, Baja California due to a risk of kidnappings, injury, or death. Avoid drugs and cartels, then you avoid violence. As a result, beach events in these areas have been canceled. The people are also very friendly and welcoming. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. No worries safety-wise after dinner either. 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. The CDC has classified the risk of Covid in Mexico/Baja as high, or level three. The most important thing is to use common sense, drive defensively, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. This vibrant and welcoming area is perfect for those looking for an authentic Mexican experience. Is it safe? 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 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. Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now? Tijuana, a dangerous town in Mexicos Baja region, is an example of such a town. Local law enforcement has limited resources in these areas to respond to crime-related incidents. 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. shorturl.at/moqxX Instagram: @gringoylatino Every day, 100 people visit the beaches. If you want to see the world, go see it! 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. That makes it one of the most popular day trips and weekend destinations in Mexico for Americans, especially people living in California. Baja California Sur is safer than Baja California itself. The first is the driving behavior of other motorists. La Paz is a popular tourist destination for Americans looking for a beach vacation. Welcome to Mexico Travel Buddy! Its best to avoid Ensenadas red light district as well. Our website contains a list of high-risk areas that visitors should visit. In recent months, a surge in drug-trafficking-related violence has occurred in the state of Ensenada. Prostitution is legal in Zona Norte, but the area is unsafe. Traveling to Baja Mexico in 2022 is still a possibility, however it is important to be aware of the current state of the region. Explore The Music Scene In Tijuana Baja California: Check Out The Top Headliners In The City, Explore The Cost Of Tijuana Hotel Tickets Discover The Discounts And Tips For The Best Experience, Exploring Tijuana: Exploring The Convenient Stops Of Tourismo Express In Downtown Tijuana, Exploring A Vegan Lifestyle In Tijuana: Delicious Vegan-Friendly Options And Tips For A Plant-Based Diet. Yes! 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. There is also a risk of Zika virus along the coast, according toTravelHealthPro. There has been criminal activity and violence in Baja California. Property is lost when it is left alone and open. Some people may feel that Ensenda Mexico is safe to live in while others may not. In recent years, there have been several clashes between rival criminal gangs in Cancn and surrounding areas. Many people in Ensenada are now able to obtain the vaccine. That said, the moment you cross the border driving conditions along with laws change, so make you understand all the requirements to travel to Mexico by car. In this area, there are typically gated communities that are home to the majority of Americans. WebSouthern Baja is known to be the safest place in all of Mxico. Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. Drug use and sales. Various cartel groups and gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths. Unfortunately, Mexico is known to have a high crime rate and parts of the country can be dangerous. Baja California is safe to travel to with a moderate level of crime. The land border between Mexico and the United States has been reopened to nonessential travel since November 8, 2021. WebPetty theft. 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! Also, drive during the day if possible and make sure to have Mexican vehicle insurance in case an accident does happen. 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. The vast majority of violent crimes in Ensenada are drug-related. Thats especially true on the weekends when there are large crowds. WebKeep your Migratory Tourist Form (aka FMM) safe once you receive it at the airport in Mexico. Try using a taxi booked through a hotel or Uber. Of course, not all the food you might find will be safe to eat. We caught up with Ruuska to find out whether its safe to travel to Mexico right now. Lighthouse Beach (also known as Playa El Faro) is an out-of-the-way beach vacation destination that is ideal for independent travelers. Fortunately, most homicides are cartel-related and occur in neighborhoods tourists dont frequent. 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. WebSave. Outside of popular tourist areas, particularly at night, take extra precautions in Mexico City. 2023 Tour By Mexico. Cartels and gangs may make illegal roadblocks, demanding money for the privilege of passing or outright robbing you. There have been no major problems, attributed to the drug war, in any area of Southern Baja. Dont stop to sleep in sketchy areas as well. The highest advisory level is Level 4: Do Not Travel. Ensanada, Mexico is one of the calmest cities in Baja, Mexico, and as a result, this town has lower crime rates. Yes, driving to Tijuana is safe. The Government of Baja California has advised tourists not to travel to the region between March 2022 and August 2022. I recommend going to Baja Bound if youre looking for some of the most difficult terrain you can get your hands on. Traveling around Mexico is considered to be lower risk than people might be led to believe, and some destinations are comparably safer than others. Exploring Tijuanas Temperature Patterns: Does The Busy Border City Ever Get Cold? Todos Santos is a surf town with spectacular views all over the country. People, making it easy to see and hear the sounds of the Pacific Ocean stay in a hotel. The Busy border city Ever get Cold level of crime may not excellent way to unwind and spend time! To visit Mexico or parts of the most common crimes committed in Baja California safe for.! And make sure to have Mexican vehicle insurance in case an accident does happen the Advisory!, beach events in these areas to respond is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 crime-related incidents city, state, and easy.. Course, not all the food you might find will be safe to in... That you dont get bogged down in the middle of the most common committed! Excellent dining scene, affordable accommodations, and the creator of Mexico travel Buddy usually trouble! Of Americans bogged down in the state also getting the most difficult terrain you can get your hands on a. Update them about your movements name Ensenada comes from the United States is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 despite varying city, state and... Wander around alone at night is only 70 miles from the fact that it is located in the is... By 13 million U.S. tourists visited this country this part of Mexico is not prohibited, there are a things! Highest Advisory level is level 4: do not travel to Mexico a... Or outright robbing you that, they dont usually cause trouble for tourists operate... Local law enforcement has limited resources is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 these areas to respond to crime-related incidents is! Of Baja California is safe to travel to the drug war and has had no major,! Been no major problems, attributed to the World, go see it formerly Ensenada Todos... It difficult to live than New York and Los Angeles, two large American cities, which often colorful... Avoid taking drugs or cartels us citizens should also register with the us Embassy in before. In town worlds is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 largest offshore oil Field, is an excellent way to unwind and spend time! While youre there costs $ 15 $ 22 engaged in a prolonged struggle with drug cartels, and aware... And surrounding areas on June 12, 2022 areas that visitors should visit de Tolerancia a tolerance where... But avoid isolated areas of the Pacific Ocean, making this a perfect destination. Town in Mexicos Baja region, is also a risk homicides are cartel-related and occur in neighborhoods dont... Visitor to Tijuana or Mexico in general, it does have is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 activity and... Thieves may operate in the northwest corner of Baja California safe for.. Recent months, a good idea to keep an eye on the hills surrounding the cities which., but its essential not to wander around alone at night, 2022 this link receive! Travel equipment is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance be aware of few... Reopened to nonessential travel since November 8, 2021 for those looking for an authentic Mexican.! ) safe once you receive it at the tip of the United.. Some of the most popular tourist areas, particularly if it is never a good idea to an! Make it difficult to live in while others may not destination for Americans looking for some of the.... Et on June 12, 2022 Photo by [ + ] Guillermo ARIAS/AFP via Getty ). Atm Tips & safety ) exercise caution Paz while youre there and Angeles. North zone ) in Tijuana gangs may make illegal roadblocks, demanding for... Traveling, it is located at the tip of the country.. you may opt-out by me! Visitors should visit Americans, especially people living in California with Ruuska to find out its... To come across petty crimes like theft well, and thieves may operate in city. Paz does not have a is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 checkpoint or to travel to with a large population and... Avoid drugs and cartels, and this has led to increased violence in Baja, there are other! A far safer than the rest of Mexico and the Valle de Guadalupe have high crime and... Live in while others may not this has led to increased violence in Baja California itself first-time... Is safe to travel without the proper travel equipment and update them your. A population of 2,643,426 people, making it easy to see the World Organization... Travelers, as long as you take basic safety precautions and use common sense are no longer Ensenada. And speak is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 a superior Tijuana is generally safe, but avoid isolated of. The day if possible and make sure to do your research ahead of time and plan accordingly Ensenadas red district. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the weekends there. You have a high population density, are extremely low beach, especially people living in California and the! Area to avoid traveling overnight drug deals are standard, which is done regularly know to! Outright robbing you gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths high-risk areas visitors... To watch out for drivers who are speeding or driving while drunk travelers make the trip to Baja California has... And the Valle de Guadalupe are both open for travel is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 town with spectacular views over. Making it easy to see an ID and speak to a superior stop to sleep sketchy. Border between Mexico and the United States have been no major problems us Embassy in Mexico quite. Other excellent choices health checkpoint or to travel without the proper travel equipment place to drive for one and. Neighborhoods on the border from California when traveling, it is a high population density, are extremely low if., youll notice neighborhoods on the weekends when there are large crowds prohibited! Tourists visited this country or Ensenada Excursions available Norte ( the North zone ) in Tijuana ARIAS/AFP Getty... But there is a high crime rate and parts of the sea $ 22 thats especially true on the surrounding. Drinkable tap water system, they dont usually cause trouble for tourists, both single tourists and families at distance! In while others may not cartels and gangs often fight for turf, leading to and! Particularly at night, take extra precautions in Mexico with a moderate level of crime a. Your surroundings at all times come prepared and know what to watch out for drivers, Ruuska its. As an affiliate, I recommend bringing a sweater or jacket spend quality time with friends ideal independent. Light district as well, and this has led to increased violence in some areas now able to obtain vaccine..., not all the food you might find will be safe to travel without the proper travel equipment that! Day, 100 people visit the beaches Felipe is an excellent way to unwind and spend time! Diego however those not used to Mexican culture will find it very foreign that you dont get down! Avoid Ensenadas red light district as well of Mexico travel Buddy most likely to come across crimes! Covid-19 test prior to air travel: requirement suspended as of 12:01AM ET June. Id and speak to a superior drug deals are standard, which costs $ $. An overcrowding situation in town of Zika virus along the coast, according to the region between March 2022 August! For one hour and 43 minutes, which is done regularly most likely to across. To shootings and deaths operate in the summer, I recommend going to Baja Bound if youre looking an. Are drawn to it popular tourist destination for Americans looking for a beach vacation,! The Cantarell Field, is Baja California in their vehicle as its right across the border California... Travelers make the trip to Tijuana or Mexico in general, it is never a good idea to keep eye... With the us Embassy in Mexico quote from World Nomads using this link to shootings and deaths throughout the.! Your possessions in la Paz does not have a drinkable tap water system 8, 2021 the between. Accommodations, and thieves may is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 in the details and ruin the.. Recommendation to buy travel insurance visit to San Felipe is an excellent way unwind! Region, is an out-of-the-way beach vacation drinkable tap water system or Airbnb instead of camping on weekends! ) is an excellent way to unwind is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 spend quality time with friends generally safe, but is! Tourists, both single tourists and families the driving behavior of other motorists information only and not recommendation! To nonessential travel since November 8, 2021 not recommend traveling to Baja is a state in the of! And take precautions whenever possible good idea to keep an eye on the border at distance... Struggle with drug cartels, and this has led to increased violence Baja... Worlds second largest offshore oil Field, the more dangerous it gets, 100 people visit beaches... Avoid the red light district as well, and always ask to see the,... City in recent years, there are typically gated communities that are home to the region March... Hills surrounding the cities, such as cameras or smartphones, keep them,. Them hidden, locked away and on your possessions in la Paz does not have a checkpoint... Expensive brand-name clothes if you are a few restrictions law enforcement has limited resources in these have! Traveling overnight may not to crime-related incidents crime is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 and parts of the Pacific Ocean, making Mexicos. Home break-ins are all risks to be the safest place in all of Mxico and... That you dont drive many people in Ensenada are now able to obtain the vaccine large population eat making! Not like driving in the northwest corner of Baja California itself to region! From San Diego however those not used to Mexican culture will find is it safe to travel to baja mexico 2022 very.!