Those looking for a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the company of others are drawn to it. It really depends on the individuals perspective and experiences. If you are driving into Mexico, youll need your vehicle registration. It is still very safe to travel to and from the city center, despite the risk of being attacked in ungated communities further away. The Baja California Sur region of Mexico is regarded as one of the safest. 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. Travel to Cancn, Tulum and the surrounding areas in Quintana Roo is still considered safe, says Ruuska. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. If you decide to travel to Baja California its best to go with a group of people and not alone. If you wish to enjoy excellent nightlife and a relaxing city on the water, Ensenada is a quiet and small city that is much safer than Tijuana. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. Either go on a tour, drive down from California, rent a car in Mexico, or hire a private driver for the day. Being home to popular tourist towns such as Cabo and La Paz, you can rest assured knowing police present a strong presence in the touristy areas. Millions of Americans have taken day trips to Tijuana and continue to do so. When traveling, it is critical to exercise caution. However, you should still travel with increased caution. In addition, you will likely see more motorcyclists (usually riding low-powered motorcycles or scooters). Many drivers may not even have a valid license. With actionable tips, tricks, and insight, MTB is your go-to source for travel advice. , some kidnapping victims claim that police officers have been involved in their kidnappings. Avoid flashy clothes and jewelry.. As a result, the city of Merida is consistently rated as one of Mexicos safest. Its a beautiful city with a lot to offer tourists, including a variety of activities, attractions, and restaurants. Thefts, snatch-and-grabs, and pickpocketing happen a lot in Mexico, especially in crowded areas so try to avoid them. There are some places in Baja that should be avoided, as should any other location on the planet. (Note: FCDO does not advise against all travel or all but essential travel to any part of the state of Baja California Sur.) Moreover, Loreto, Los Cabos, and La Paz are popular tourist destinations with a safe rap. Many Americans travel to Tijuana for affordable medical and dental care. It is located on Mexicos west coast in Baja California Sur, one of the most secure states, and it is a beautiful state. As one of the most popular tourist Before your trip to Baja California, Mexico, keep the following advice in mind. In general, travelers should avoid travel to areas unlikely to be visited by tourists. You can find local wines, delicious seafood, and a lot of fantastic beaches. However, you should stick to the main roads and avoid hitchhikers. Do not walk alone at night, especially in unfamiliar neighborhoods, desolate areas or beaches. 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. San Felipe is a very safe town located on the eastern coast of Baja California. The cartels control important drug and human trafficking routes across the border. Despite the fact that Mexico has increased its water quality management resources, this situation persists. Greyhound transports approximately 18 million passengers per year who travel 5.4 billion miles (8.6 billion km) on their vehicles, which number around 1700. Violence has been on the rise in this city in recent years. If you lose it, you will have to pay for a new one. It is well-maintained, has rest stops, and is ideal for those looking for a relaxing trip. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Cartel members, not tourists, account for the vast majority of the victims. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. The water quality at Tijuana and Rosarito beaches has been declared poor by the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks. Any travel to Baja by car and border crossing does not require proof of a covid test. Does Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe have high crime rates? The best way to find rentals in Ensenada is through classifieds, but this is difficult. Baja California is a state in Mexico that shares a border with the state of California in the United States. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. You may even have trouble finding a taxi, and Uber may not work as you get further away from the city. If youre looking for a party town, Rosarito is the place to go. US citizens need a passport or passport card to cross the border. According to the UK Government, over 576,971 British nationals visited Mexico in 2017 with most visits being trouble-free. Avoid wearing fancy jewelry and brand-name clothes which may draw unwanted attention; ultimately leading the criminals right to you. In 2010, the city had a murder rate of 60 per 100,000 people, one of the highest in Mexico. I prefer to exchange money in the United States (at the change houses near the border). Its best to avoid driving at night if possible, as your visibility is reduced, and criminals are generally more active at this time. Ensenada and the Valle de Guadalupe are both open for travel. Todos Santos Bay is located in the Pacific Ocean and is the location of this city. Use app-based services or regulated taxi stands only, says Ruuska. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. Crime is another issue that should concern you. The water temperature in Ensenada is 71 degrees Fahrenheit as of today. People of various ages (from babies to 70 years old) have come to visit me there. This area is packed with a variety of unique activities and excellent restaurants that will provide you with memorable experiences. This begs the question if Chicago is safe. Visit Hussongs Cantina, the oldest in Baja, for a taste of the legendary margarita. Expect to find yourself in potential trouble if you even consider buying drugs while in Baja, Mexico. Check theNational Hurricane Center for hurricane warnings. In fact, make a copy of all your travel documents. The first is the driving behavior of other motorists. The center of Ensenada is safe, as is the promenade on the water and its touristy beaches. Keep an eye on the situation and avoid taking drugs or cartels. Exploring Tijuanas Temperature Patterns: Does The Busy Border City Ever Get Cold? Crime has increased in the state of Coahuila, so there has been increased caution. 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. Exploring Tijuanas Temperature Patterns: Does The Busy Border City Ever Get Cold? These measures have helped to reduce the murder rate, but Ensenada still remains one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico. In the state of Guanajuato: the areas south west of the road 45D The safety of Mexicos citizens is a top priority for the countrys government. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. warns against picking up hitchhikers. Mexico, despite the medias sensationalized depictions of violence, is also a relatively peaceful place to live than many major U.S. cities. From there on out, there was a brief wait before we reached the border agent. The Ensenada neighborhood is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses, all of which contribute to the unique and vibrant atmosphere. Even as travel is discouraged to all of Mexico because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. State Department continues to update its U.S. government employees are not permitted to travel to Guerrero state due to crime. We have been in Baja for the past two months and are sharing what van life is really like down here in 2021. US citizens should also register with the US Embassy in Mexico before traveling to Ensenada. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. Without proper hygiene in between such acts, the likelihood of receiving contaminated food is high. However, look for a place popular with locals and tourists, as the ingredients will be fresher. Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. It is the largest municipality in Mexico because of its geographical location, flora and fauna, as well as the great physical geography, with sea and ocean views. But the resorts are generally safe places to visit. However, the best strategy for most visitors (especially day trippers) is to visit several exchange vendors and choose one that gives the best rate. Qantas Introduces New First-Class Cabins Looking Like Small Living Rooms. Various cartel groups and gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths. Be wary of attempts at credit-card fraud. Ensenada is a fairly peaceful city in general. Baja California, a region located on the western coast of Mexico, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. 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. With its imported influences, it has an excellent dining scene, affordable accommodations, and easy access. But like everywhere you take your precious brood go heavy on the research. 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. Drug deals are standard, which means that drug dealers and their henchmen are also present. | Safety Concerns | Travellers However, is Baja California safe for tourists, both single tourists and families? A visit to San Felipe is an excellent way to unwind and spend quality time with friends. There is no definitive answer, as conditions can change rapidly and vary depending on the specific route taken. 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. A simple rule: if there are families around, youre probably safe. The cost of obtaining temporary Mexico auto insurance is another requirement if you drive your U.S. car over the border into Tijuana, Mexico. Ensenadas vineyards and tasting rooms are less than 30 miles away in Guadalupe Valley. Todos Santos is a surf town with spectacular views all over the country. And dont get just any insurance, its best to get affordable yet reputable insurance like Baja Bound whos been in business for decades. Ensenada is one of the Wine Routes most important gateways, known as the Capital del vino Mexicano (Capital of Mexican wine). The CDC has classified the risk of Covid in Mexico/Baja as high, or level three. 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. Street tacos are abundant, and its worth trying them at least once. As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. Yes. Tasting wine in the Santo Tomas Valley and San Vicente Valley is more intimate and less crowded. The same goes for Ensenada. 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. Keep dummy wallets for pickpockets and keep your money hidden away. You can catch the bus at one of the approximately 230 Greyhound stations in the United States. In this area, there are typically gated communities that are home to the majority of Americans. Violent crimesuch as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking and robberyis widespread and common in Mexico, warns the State Department. Yes! The CDCs findings indicate that Mexico is at a high risk of COVID-19 exposure. has released a Level 3 Reconsider Travel advisory for Baja California state. Tabasco state has a high rate of crime and violence. There are numerous popular tourist destinations in Baja, but crowds can make it difficult for local criminals to operate. UPDATE: 2022/11/12 15:18 EST BY AARON SPRAY. Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. How much crime is there in Ensenada? The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. If you are kidnapped, never resist. Although Mexico is safe and beautiful, it is also vulnerable to dangers. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Covid patients are still being treated, and hospitals have adapted to the situation. If you think youre being overcharged for a taxi, a trip from the border to the center of town should be around $5 (USD). However, it does have cartel activity, and crime is also a risk. Police arent helpful and can be extremely inappropriate. If you must drive, do not drive after dark, be on your lookout for cows and horses in the road, and fill your gas tank as frequently as possible. This is lower than the national average of 45.92 in Mexico. In the case of Baja California, the free zone covers the entire state. Don't travel at night outside major cities. In 2022, 13 million U.S. tourists visited this country. Due to Drive at night and in unknown and remote areas. Below is our latest on travel safety in Mexico plus up-to-date advice on staying safe in Mexico. His favorite destination is anywhere in Mexico. Dont go where there are few other people in the vicinity; this includes camping in secluded places. Rosarito Beach - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with All three cities are some of the oldest and most popular tourist destinations in Baja California Sur. The Clean Beaches program data shows that the water quality in these beaches has not improved in the last five years. If you are driving to Baja from California, we highly recommend using our Tijuana border crossing map. 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. 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. Yes, it is safe to travel to Mexico currently. Driving through Baja is generally safe. Ensenada is the ideal beach town for anyone looking for a laid-back beach vacation. The more recent map is here. San Diego and Tijuana were selected as the joint bid for World Design Capital, making it the first binational bid in WDO history. Employees of the United States government are not permitted to travel to the following areas due to the restrictions listed below. There is no easy answer to this question as opinions will vary from person to person. The month before, a California travel blogger and a German tourist were killed in a shooting in Tulum. You do not need to provide a negative result of a Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination to enter. Finally, avoid wandering around near the border except for the official border crossings. Various illegal activities occur near the border, and you never know what youll bump into. We caught up with Ruuska to find out whether its safe to travel to Mexico right now. 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. Keep your valuables hidden and maintain a low profile. Driving through Tijuana is riskier than crossing through Tecate because it is a more convenient border crossing. You should be aware of your surroundings and take appropriate precautions to avoid any problems. The Condition Office current the Vacation Advisory for Mexico on Oct. 5, which is done regularly. However, its not a safe area. In many parts of the state of Guerrero, armed groups operate independently of the government. If youre looking for a place to broaden your horizons in food, Mexicos largest wine region is an excellent choice. 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. The Valle de Guadalupe (Guadalupe Valley) in Baja California features many wineries and restaurants. Authorities have also increased security measures in these areas, including Cancn, Acapulco, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta. 2023 Tour By Mexico. The main tourist destinations of Baja California all have neighborhoods that are unsafe to go to. According to a recent official research, Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas, and San Jose del Cabo are the safest destinations in Mexico. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. Our aim is to help you experience Mexico to its fullest so you can "Travel Like A Local". In Chihuahua state, bystanders have been killed or injured during shooting incidents. Runtime 10:37 View count 98 Description #mxico #travelmexico #comidamexicana Subscrbanse a mi canal!!! Leaving things out is a sign of carelessness, particularly if it is a city. There are six ways to get to Ensenada from San Diego: tram, bus, or car. There are many safe and enjoyable places to visit in Baja Mexico, but it is important to be cautious and informed. In some areas of Mexico, there has been an increase in crime and kidnapping. Read on to learn all about staying safe in Baja California, Mexico. Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. In general, Mexican people are friendly, fun-loving, helpful and openand curious of solo female travelers.. Is San Felipe worth visiting? There has been criminal activity and violence in Baja California. There are no longer any Ensenada Massages, Valle Mobile Spa, or Ensenada Excursions available. Although petty crime is the most common experience for all visitors, both physical and sexual violence is also at an all-time high. Many travelers make the trip to Baja California in their vehicle as its right across the border from California. 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. Another area to avoid in Tijuana is Zona Centro, or the citys center. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. What are some tips for Mexico residents? 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. The majority of the valley is open, with a small section of it open to the public. There are more problems that arise in schools and other public places. WebDoes this mean it's safe to travel in Baja California, Mexico again.' There are currently no restrictions on travel within Baja California or its major tourist destinations, including Ensenada, Rosarito, and Tijuana. (Updated January 2023) Please keep in mind that due to contamination, Playa Hermosa Beach is closed for water activities. The Government of Baja California has advised tourists not to travel to the region between March 2022 and August 2022. 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. You should not drive after dark, be on Travel to and from the United States should be postponed until the H1N1 vaccine is fully available. All government employees in the United States are reminded to adhere to the following travel restrictions. Mexico Travel Buddy is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. During the spring and fall, it is best to visit Ensenada. Is Baja California Safe? This natural paradise is made of stone streets and uncrowded beaches but also features a ton of natural beauty and world-class waves. Ask where youre staying for the nearest safe atm. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico. Ensenada is a wonderful place to visit whether youre going from San Diego to Mexico for a short trip or going all the way around. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. 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. Property is lost when it is left alone and open. However, these incidents have been between criminal organizations and gangs. It all comes together nicely in San Felipe, Baja California, with great beaches, a variety of deserts, and a variety of activities to enjoy. link to Withdrawing Money in Puerto Vallarta (ATM Tips & Safety), link to How to Tip In Puerto Vallarta (Proper Tipping Etiquette), Avoid attracting any kind of attention to yourself, Never find yourself in a situation where you are alone. It is not a particularly safe place to travel, so common safety precautions should be taken, such as not going alone at night or being cautious of pickpockets. 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. Here are 10 reasons why! Also, like Tijuana, Ensenada has a Zona de Tolerancia a tolerance zone where prostitution is legal. The crime rate in Baja is low, and tourists are unlikely to encounter any problems. You will want to avoid the red light district Zona Norte (the North Zone) in Tijuana. If you choose to travel to Mexico, make sure to do your research ahead of time and plan accordingly. Dollars are accepted everywhere in Ensenada. A drivers license is not acceptable. Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now? Avoid drugs and cartels, then you avoid violence. A turf war between the Sinaloa cartel and the Nueva Generacin Jalisco has been the reason for an increase in violence. The best thing you can do is to completely abandon the solo plan. Many areas have high crime rates, which pose a risk to foreigners. Lighthouse Beach (also known as Playa El Faro) is an out-of-the-way beach vacation destination that is ideal for independent travelers. However, there are some safety concerns that potential visitors should be aware of. Got tips, tricks & advice we can learn from? Alex Gomez is a professional writer, travel enthusiast, and the creator of Mexico Travel Buddy. Women need to be careful in Mexico. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The city is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, making it easy to see and hear the sounds of the sea. Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. 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. Updated: Sep 16, 2022. My parents were coming out to see me, so I wanted to take them out for a little visit down there. A. Every day, 100 people visit the beaches. 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. However, overall, Baja California does tend to be safer than the majority of Mexico, particularly in the major tourist areas such as Los Cabos and Ensenada. There is no need to be concerned because roads are open and businesses are accepting deposits. Due to it being on the border, various malicious actors are present, which only increases crime levels. 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. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or expensive brand-name clothes if you want to appear professional. According to Numbeo.com, Baja California is moderately safe. Always check theCDCs travel noticesfor warnings about hurricanes, Zika, and other diseases and natural disasters. Tijuana, Mexico, is one of the worlds busiest urban border crossings, with 50 million travelers crossing the border each year. Cruise ships are frequent visitors to the downtown harbor area, and there are souvenir stands and overpriced restaurants there as well.