Top 5 Safest States in Mexico To Explore for Tourist
Are you planning a trip to Mexico but worried about safety concerns? You’re not alone. Mexico is known for being unsafe, with reports of violence and crime dominating the news. However, not all of Mexico is dangerous. There are many safe states where tourists can enjoy a worry-free vacation. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the Safest states in Mexico to live in. Fasten up and get ready for an adventure!
Safety Should Be Your Top Concern
Mexico is a beautiful and cultural country with a rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes. However, it’s also known for its high crime rates and violence. According to a report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Mexico has the highest homicide rates in the world. In 2020, there were 36,579 homicide cases reported in Mexico, an average of 100 murders per day. These numbers are alarming, but they don’t tell the whole story. Mexico is a vast country, and the safety situation varies from state to state. To have a safe and enjoyable trip to Mexico, you need to do your research and plan.
The Criteria for Ranking the Safest States in Mexico
When ranking the safest states in Mexico, we considered several factors, including:
- Crime rates: We looked at the incidence of violent crimes, such as homicide, kidnapping, and robbery, as well as property crimes, like theft and burglary.
- Tourist safety measures: We considered the safety measures implemented in each state to protect tourists, such as increased police presence, surveillance cameras, and tourist police.
- Perception of safety: We looked at surveys and polls that asked tourists and locals about their perception of safety in each state.
Our ranking is not definitive, and safety is subjective. You should always exercise caution and follow safety protocols when traveling to any destination.
Top 5 Safest States in Mexico
1. Yucatan
Yucatan is the safest state in Mexico, according to our criteria. It’s known for its rich Mayan heritage, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. The crime rate in Yucatan is low, and tourists rarely encounter safety concerns. The state government has invested in tourist safety measures, such as increased police presence and cameras in tourist areas. Yucatan is also home to many all-inclusive resorts that provide tourists with a safe and secure environment.
2. Campeche
Campeche is another safe state in Mexico that tourists often overlook. It’s on the Yucatan Peninsula, known for its beautiful colonial architecture, Mayan ruins, and natural reserves. Campeche has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and tourist police.
3. Baja California Sur
Baja California Sur is located in the northwest of Mexico and is home to popular tourist destinations like Los Cabos and La Paz. Despite its popularity, Baja California Sur has a low crime rate and is considered one of the safest states in Mexico. The state government has implemented safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols, surveillance cameras, and tourist police.
4. Queretaro
Queretaro is located in central Mexico and is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, museums, and art galleries. The state is known for its low crime rate. The state government has implemented safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police presence and surveillance cameras in tourist areas. Queretaro is also home to many international companies and universities, making it a hub for business and education.
5. Coahuila
Coahuila is located in the north of Mexico and shares a border with Texas. The state is known for its stunning landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and canyons. Coahuila has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police presence and surveillance cameras in tourist areas. Saltillo, the capital of Coahuila, is known for its colonial architecture, museums, and restaurants.
Other Safe States in Mexico
In addition to Mexico’s top 5 safest states, several other safe states are worth visiting. Here are some of them:
Nayarit
Nayarit is located on Mexico’s Pacific coast and is known for its beautiful beaches, surfing, and whale watching. The state has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police presence and surveillance cameras in tourist areas.
Aguascalientes
Aguascalientes is located in central Mexico and is known for its vibrant culture, museums, and hot springs. The state has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and tourist police.
Durango
Durango is located northwest of Mexico and is known for its stunning landscapes, including canyons, mountains, and forests. The state has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police presence and surveillance cameras in tourist areas.
Chiapas
Chiapas is located in southern Mexico and is known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, lakes, and jungles. The state has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and tourist police.
Guanajuato
Guanajuato is located in central Mexico and is known for its colonial architecture, museums, and art galleries. The state has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police presence and surveillance cameras in tourist areas.
Tlaxcala
Tlaxcala is located in central Mexico and is known for its historical sites, including ancient ruins and colonial architecture. The state has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and tourist police.
Zacatecas
Zacatecas is located in central Mexico and is known for its colonial architecture, museums, and art galleries. The state has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and tourist police.
Hidalgo
Hidalgo is located in central Mexico and is known for its natural beauty, including forests, mountains, and waterfalls. The state has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and tourist police.
San Luis Potosi
San Luis Potosi is located in central Mexico and is known for its colonial architecture, museums, and art galleries. The state has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police presence and surveillance cameras in tourist areas.
Oaxaca
Oaxaca is located in southern Mexico and is known for its natural beauty, including beaches, mountains, and jungles. The state has a low crime rate, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and tourist police.
The Safety Situation in Mexico’s Major Tourist Destinations
While some parts of Mexico are safer than others, there are specific major tourist destinations that are relatively safe for travelers. Following are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico and the safety situation in each of them:
Cancun and the Riviera Maya
Cancun and the Riviera Maya are famous tourist destinations located in the state of Quintana Roo. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. While the state has a high crime rate, most crimes are non-violent and do not target tourists.
The state government has implemented safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and tourist police. However, it’s important to note that the area has experienced occasional violence related to organized crime, so it’s essential to exercise caution when traveling in Cancun and the Riviera Maya.
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a famous tourist destination situated on Mexico’s Pacific coast. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, colonial architecture, and vibrant nightlife. The crime rate in Puerto Vallarta is low, and the city has a reputation for being safe. The state government has implemented safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and tourist police.
Los Cabos
Los Cabos is a popular tourist destination located in the state of Baja California Sur. The region is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and world-class resorts. The crime rate in Los Cabos is relatively low, and the state government has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and tourist police. However, like Cancun and the Riviera Maya, Los Cabos has experienced occasional violence related to organized crime.
Mexico City
Mexico City is the capital of Mexico and is known for its history, culture, and stunning architecture. While the city is known for being unsafe, the crime rate has decreased in the recent past. The city has implemented safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and surveillance cameras in tourist areas. However, travelers should exercise caution when traveling in Mexico City, particularly at night and in areas with a high crime rate.
Guadalajara
Guadalajara is Mexico’s second-largest city, known for its vibrant culture, museums, and art galleries. The crime rate in Guadalajara is relatively low, and the city has implemented several safety measures to protect tourists, such as increased police patrols and surveillance cameras in tourist areas. However, travelers should exercise caution when traveling in Guadalajara, particularly at night and in areas with a high crime rate.
Tips for Staying Safe When Traveling to Mexico
While the safest states in Mexico are relatively secure for tourists, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips for staying safe when traveling to Mexico:
- Research your destination: Before you travel to Mexico, research the safety situation in your destination. Check the crime rates and the safety measures implemented to protect tourists.
- Stay in safe areas: When choosing accommodations, stay in certain regions popular with tourists. Avoid staying in areas with a high crime rate.
- Use reliable transportation: Use reliable transportation, such as taxis from reputable companies or ride-sharing services, to avoid getting lost or stranded in unsafe areas.
- Be aware of your surroundings: When traveling in Mexico, be aware of your surroundings and stay alert for any potential safety concerns.
- Keep a low profile: To avoid unwanted attention, keep a low profile and avoid displaying expensive jewelry, electronics, or other valuables.
- Don’t travel alone at night: If possible, avoid traveling alone at night, particularly in areas with a high crime rate.
- Carry only what you need: When traveling in Mexico, carry only what you need, such as your identification, money, and phone. Leave your passport and other valuables in a safe place, such as your hotel safe.
- Avoid drugs and excessive alcohol: Drug use and more use of alcohol consumption can put you at risk of becoming a victim of crime. Avoid using drugs and drink alcohol responsibly.
- Learn some Spanish: Knowing some basic Spanish can help you communicate with locals and avoid misunderstandings. It can also help you navigate the city and ask for directions.
- Stay informed: Stay informed about the safety situation in your destination by reading local news and following the advice of the local authorities.
Conclusion
Mexico has much to offer tourists, from its stunning landscapes and rich history to its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. While safety concerns can deter some travelers, there are many safe states in Mexico where tourists can enjoy a worry-free vacation. Following the tips we’ve provided and exercising caution, you can have a safe trip to Mexico.
FAQs
Is it safe to travel to Mexico?
While Mexico has a reputation for being unsafe, there are many safe states where tourists can enjoy a worry-free vacation. You can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Mexico by researching and following safety protocols.
What are the safest states in Mexico?
According to our criteria, the safest states in Mexico are Yucatan, Campeche, Baja California Sur, Queretaro, and Coahuila. However, other safe conditions are worth visiting, such as Nayarit, Aguascalientes, Durango, Chiapas, Guanajuato, Tlaxcala, Zacatecas, Hidalgo, San Luis Potosi, and Oaxaca.
What safety precautions should I take when traveling to Mexico?
To stay safe when traveling to Mexico, you should research your destination, stay in secure areas, use reliable transportation, be aware of your surroundings, keep a low profile, avoid traveling alone at night, carry only what you need, avoid drugs and excessive alcohol, learn some Spanish, and stay informed.
Are there any parts of Mexico that I should avoid?
Certain parts of Mexico are considered unsafe for tourists, particularly those known for drug-related violence and crime. It’s essential to do your research and avoid these areas.