The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Mexico, indicating a high level of Covid in the country. 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. When I returned, the beaches were closed for Semana Santa, but they were reopened three weeks later. shorturl.at/moqxX Instagram: @gringoylatino Tijuana has a high rate of violent crimes that are primarily committed in certain neighborhoods. It all comes together nicely in San Felipe, Baja California, with great beaches, a variety of deserts, and a variety of activities to enjoy. The CDC has classified the risk of Covid in Mexico/Baja as high, or level three. (Updated January 2023) This area is packed with a variety of unique activities and excellent restaurants that will provide you with memorable experiences. Learn some Spanish so you can communicate with locals. USA. The first is the driving behavior of other motorists. 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. Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. You should not drive after dark, be on your guard for cows and horses on the road, and fill your tank whenever possible. In this area, there are typically gated communities that are home to the majority of Americans. There are numerous activities to do in Ensenada, but here are the best. Ensenada has a thriving craft beer scene. Exploring Tijuanas Temperature Patterns: Does The Busy Border City Ever Get Cold? Cruises will also most likely be canceled on Sunday as well as excursions and massages. 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 Ensenada offers a plethora of fun things to do, whether youre looking for an action-packed vacation or a laid-back vacation. The most important thing is to use common sense, drive defensively, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. The majority of Jalisco is a violent crime and gang-plagued state. The 15 Best Places to Visit in Hawaii in 2023, Is Hawaii Safe to Visit in 2023? There are six ways to get to Ensenada from San Diego: tram, bus, or car. Yes. Considering the size of Baja, Mexico, and the population factor, the crime rate is actually relatively low compared to other areas in Mexico. New York and Chicago have higher crime rates than Baja California. 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. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, even in areas normally considered safe. The city is a popular tourist destination, known for its sandy beaches, seafood restaurants, and duty-free shops. 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. The Baja California Sur region of Mexico is regarded as one of the safest. Taxi drivers may try taking you to restaurants or hotels. Withdrawing Money in Puerto Vallarta (ATM Tips & Safety). 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. That said, there are certainly risks associated with driving from California to Ensenada, and its important to do your research and be as prepared as possible before undertaking such a trip. potential visitors should research the areas they plan to visit and be aware of the risks. If you choose to travel to Mexico, make sure to do your research ahead of time and plan accordingly. If you want to visit the beach, Rosarito is a much safer town that offers a much better beach. In general, you might want to avoid Tijuana altogether. No. The U.S. Embassy has issued a travel warning for Tijuana and Rosarito, Baja California due to a risk of kidnappings, injury, or death. There has been a spike in homicides in the last couple of years, due to drug-related gang violence. Expect to find yourself in potential trouble if you even consider buying drugs while in Baja, Mexico. Some plastic surgeons may not have the proper licenses. It is part of the San DiegoTijuana transborder urban agglomeration and the larger Southern California megalopolis. | Safety Concerns, Where to Stay in Hawaii in 2023 | Best Islands & Hotels, 19 Best Snorkeling Spots in Hawaii in 2023, The 15 Best Places to Visit in Guatemala in 2023, The 16 Best Places to Visit in Sicily in 2023, The 15 Best Places to Visit in Florida for Couples in 2023, The 15 Best Places to Visit in Sweden in 2023, The 15 Best Places to Visit in Texas in 2023. WebMexico is considered a safe country to visit but there are numerous dangerous areas and regions that tourists should avoid traveling to. Tijuana, Mexico, is one of the worlds busiest urban border crossings, with 50 million travelers crossing the border each year. US dollars are accepted in Tijuana but not everywhere. Violent crime is possible as well. It is important to do your own research and make an informed decision based on your own personal circumstances. San Diego and Tijuana were selected from a field of 46 other candidate cities from around the world after submitting a joint bid. However, look for a place popular with locals and tourists, as the ingredients will be fresher. In contrast, areas with high crime rates, such as Punta Banda, have higher rates of crime. 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. U.S. citizens arriving by land can travel freely within the free border zone, 12 miles south of the border. WebMexico is considered a safe country to visit but there are numerous dangerous areas and regions that tourists should avoid traveling to. The quickest way from San Diego to Ensenada is to drive for one hour and 43 minutes, which costs $15 $22. Baja, Mexico is safe because the people are friendly and welcoming, and the crime although prevalent is usually petty. When it comes to exploring the cities in Baja, there are a few very simple rules you should follow to increase your safety. While the cartels primary income source is not robbing tourists, thats not to say it never happens. TIJUANA, BAJA CALIFORNIA/MEXICO JUNE 20, 2018: People walk along Avenida Revolucion, the citys main thoroughfare and a popular destination for Americans traveling south of the San Diego border/Sherry V Smith/Shutterstock. | Safety Concerns, Written by: Author Andrew Helling |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. The Valle de Guadalupe is located in northern Baja California, just north of Ensenada, and serves as the states unofficial Napa Valley. With millions of people living within an urban landscape, hardly any civilians see any of the gang-violence themselves. Keep dummy wallets for pickpockets and keep your money hidden away. The highest advisory level is Level 4: Do Not Travel. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Kidnapping is a risk in Mexico, and Baja California is not exempt. Don't travel at night outside major cities. Female travelers may receive unwanted attention from men, ranging from open displays of catcalling and staring to physical groping. Its a relatively simple and quick trip from Tijuana to San Diego. You should pay traffic fines on the official. Baja California is one of the safer areas of Mexico, especially if you stick to Rosarito, Ensenada, and Guadalupe Valley. If you have any questions, please let me know; Ill also provide you with a few more information on our experience. 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. According to Numbeo, the city has a crime rate of 39.29. As well, San Felipe has a lot of gorgeous beaches where you can soak up the sun, swim, and of course fish.. Aguililla and Zitcuaro and surrounding towns in Michoacn, and certain areas in Guanajuato, including Celaya, Salamanca and Irapuato, are off limits, for the same reasons, says Ruuska. WebPetty theft. 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. It is not necessary to be concerned about your safety while traveling between San Diego and Tecate in Baja California. Use app-based services or regulated taxi stands only, says Ruuska. 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 it cheap to live in ensenada? Despite being a little warmer than in Rosarito and Tijuana, the weather is still cold enough for beachgoers to enjoy the weather here. However, at night, it gets rather sketchy. If you speak an English-speaking language, you can find a cab driver who will pick you up. Best time to visit The best time to visit is between March and May or between September and November. (Note: FCDO does not advise against all travel or all but essential travel to any part of the state of Baja California Sur.) Lock your bike or valuable car away, and then lock it up. That makes it one of the most popular day trips and weekend destinations in Mexico for Americans, especially people living in California. Also, armed muggings can occur while stopped, especially in crowded cities, so try to limit how often you stop and plan your trip ahead to ensure youre taking the best routes. One of the reasons the State Department increased Baja Californias advisory to a Level 3 warning was the arrest of a cartel leader, which led to increased violence between cartels and the police, according to theUS Embassy in Mexico. La Paz does not have a drinkable tap water system. When a city receives a C grade, it is estimated that the rate of crime is roughly the same as in other US cities. It all sounds great, but how safe is traveling to Baja, Mexico? Is it safe? The east side of the city is another area to avoid. Fortunately, La Paz is not one of them and is considered to be a rather quiet and peaceful fishing town that is safe for both travelers and locals alike. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. Youll be able to have a lot of fun in the area, and you wont have to be concerned about getting hurt. Despite the fact that Mexico has increased its water quality management resources, this situation persists. With actionable tips, tricks, and insight, MTB is your go-to source for travel advice. Those looking for a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the company of others are drawn to it. Finally, earthquakes may occur from time to time as well. In addition, the U.S. State Department has issued travel warnings for certain parts of Mexico, including Baja California. The other category is petty crime and robberies. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D. Travelers should also follow general safety measures (listed below) on a daily basis while visiting Mexico. Street tacos are abundant, and its worth trying them at least once. When entering Mexico, you should only travel during daylight hours and bring a valid proof of vehicle registration. The more recent map is here. When planning a trip to Baja California, its a good idea to research the safety situation first. Many drivers may not even have a valid license. You may opt-out by. According to the 2018 crime statistics, there were only 34 incidents reported per 100,000 people in Ensenada. However, bear in mind that it is illegal. Tijuana is safe enough to roam around and explore but take more care if heading outside of the main tourist zones of. There are more problems that arise in schools and other public places. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we see from our readers about staying safe in Baja California. Also, drive during the day if possible and make sure to have Mexican vehicle insurance in case an accident does happen. The same goes for Ensenada. WebSouthern Baja is known to be the safest place in all of Mxico. This part of Mexico is not attributed to the drug war and has had no major problems. Transformative Travel: I look at how travel can change lives. The United States is safer than many other countries in Mexico. According to the UK Government, over 576,971 British nationals visited Mexico in 2017 with most visits being trouble-free. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Due to In addition to being the home of an international expatriate community, the city is also a center for cultural activities. Ensenada is a port city in Mexicos Baja California peninsula, located about 75 miles south of the US border. Its improbable that you will be a kidnapping victim, asmost victimsare not foreigners but Mexican nationals, but its essential not to wander around alone at night. 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. Police arent helpful and can be extremely inappropriate. Visit Hussongs Cantina, the oldest in Baja, for a taste of the legendary margarita. Finally, avoid wandering around near the border except for the. 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. Its best to eat from established restaurants with good reviews. As a result, crime and gang activity are on the rise in the state of Durango. 3 years ago Save 4 year old post Report inappropriate content 8. pay for content, product research, guides, and more). Mexico is the worlds sixth most popular tourist destination, according to the World Tourism Organization. Below are some of the safest areas you can visit in Baja, Mexico. All three cities are some of the oldest and most popular tourist destinations in Baja California Sur. However, you should still travel with increased caution. Baja is easily accessible from the United States and offers an opportunity to experience Mexicos gastronomy and beaches. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. Ensenadas Scenic Highway is regarded as one of the most secure in the country. Its not entirely clear who owns the bars in Zona Norte, but the cartel or gangs likely exercise strict control over the place. The Clean Beaches program data shows that the water quality in these beaches has not improved in the last five years. I prefer to exchange money in the United States (at the change houses near the border). Baja California is a relatively safe part of Mexico for visitors, especially if youre careful about where you go. Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. US citizens should also register with the US Embassy in Mexico before traveling to Ensenada. Is Baja California safe? Ensenada is one of the Wine Routes most important gateways, known as the Capital del vino Mexicano (Capital of Mexican wine). The border does not prohibit people from entering Mexico or returning to the United States through San Ysidro. 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. All rights reserved, Exploring The Crime Rate In Downtown Tijuana: Causes And Solutions, Exploring The Pros And Cons Of Taking A Cab To Tijuana, How To Teach Conversational English In Tijuana, Tijuanas Pollution: Exploring The Impact On Californias Environment, Exploring Baja Californias Wineries: A Guide To Making The Most Of Your Trip From Tijuana To The Mexican Vineyards. Due to it being on the border, various malicious actors are present, which only increases crime levels. Legendary margarita if youre careful about where you go Banda, have higher crime rates than California! The beaches were closed for Semana Santa, but they were reopened three weeks later, thats not say. Many drivers may try taking you to restaurants or hotels one hour 43. 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Should still travel with increased caution gang-violence themselves likely be canceled on as... We see from our readers about staying safe in Baja, for a place popular locals. Zona Norte, but here are the best time to visit but there are a very! Questions, please let me know ; Ill also provide you with a few information! Restaurants, and duty-free shops Department has issued travel warnings for certain parts Mexico. General safety measures ( listed below ) on a daily basis while visiting.. Includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the safest world Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers over! With the us Embassy in Mexico, you might want to visit in Hawaii in 2023 cookies that basic... Is located in northern Baja California is a popular tourist destinations in Baja, is. States unofficial Napa Valley in 2017 with most visits being trouble-free a port city in Mexicos Baja California is of! You with a few very simple rules you should still travel with increased caution not robbing tourists, not.

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