And finally, you might get pulled over by a corrupt officer who will insist you pay a fine to them. How Safe Is Juarez for Travel? - Travel Safe - Abroad However, its important to weigh the risks and take precautions to stay safe if you do decide to go. In January, the average temperature is 11.4 C. 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. Keep a photocopy of your passport with you at all times. It's not safe. With a population of over 2 million people, Tijuana is the largest metropolitan area in northwestern Mexico. And it should go without saying, but never under any circumstances buy drugs in the city. Baja is easily accessible from the United States and offers an opportunity to experience Mexicos gastronomy and beaches. Cartels and gangs may make illegal roadblocks, demanding money for the privilege of passing or outright robbing you. Kidnappings, robberies, and homicides have gone up in the last couple of years to the point where Tijuana has been dubbed the Most Dangerous City In The World. Street tacos are abundant, and its worth trying them at least once. After all, much of the economy there is based on tourism from the United States. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. So, dont let the possible threat keep you from visiting. A drivers license is not acceptable. Predictors of victimization among young females (aged 16-20) generally included environmental factors, whereas evening drinking was associated with victimization among women aged 21 and older. A Night in Tijuana: Female Victimization in a High-Risk Environment by Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation. Menu Menu Location (855) -506-6188 Contact . Violent crime is possible as well. While Ensenada has some good hiking trails, its essential to ask your hotel or Airbnb host if its a good idea to go. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. First and foremost, dont dress like you want to be robbed. There are three important things you should look out for in Tijuanapetty crime, scams, and muggings. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. Mainly, you want to avoid confrontation and eye contact with them. Not all the taxis use their meters and can charge you a criminal price when you get to your destination. I would bypass Tijuana and drive further south about 30 minutes to a beach town called Puerto Nuevo. Tips on Tijuana Warnings or Dangers - Stay Safe! - SmarterTravel For tourists, yes Tijuana is safe. However, not all doctors are professional or good at what they do. The entire area is seedy, and bad things can go down quickly. However, most of the time, its too much trouble for them, and they drop the matter entirely. Mugging isnt as prevalent, and you must look out for it in the wrong neighborhoods outside touristy attractions. However, try to negotiate the price if you choose this option. If you want to take expensive equipment such as cameras or smartphones, keep them hidden, locked away and on your person. We use analytics to understand and improve the website experience, and we do not sell or share any data with a 3rd-party. Get the best deal on your trip by comparing deals on Booking.com and Expedia! I have just returned home in Los Angeles after walking across the border on Wednesday night. The situation has become so dire that the US State Department has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Tijuana, warning Americans not to visit the city due to the high levels of crime and violence. With the right precautions, its still possible to have a safe and enjoyable trip to Tijuana. Avoid crime infested areas like Colonia 3 de Octubre, Zona Rio, and Zona Norte. Spain: A Great Destination for Retirees, Expats, Digital Nomads, and More, Malta: The Mediterraneans Best Kept Secret for Retirees, Expats, and Digital Nomads, Red Eye Flights Pros and Cons of Traveling at Night, Why Portugal is the Best European Retirement Option. Bridges over the border and across the Tijuana river become dangerous at night. The short answer is yes, Tijuana is safe for tourists. Theyre there to prevent violent crime against tourists, not to help you. This is quite common in tourist areas down there, so watch out. Might not be so bad if we go for just one day and we are in a large group. He kept asking me To describe them but I told him I didnt remember. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people. If youre a couple of young guys heading down to TJ to party a bit, youre probably heading there to chase tail. Yes. How Safe is Tijuana for Americans in 2023? - Where the Rooster Crows Is it normal to feel lost after high school? Don't drink water from the tap here! Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. However, with the recent rise in crime and violence, many are questioning whether it is still safe to visit Tijuana as an American in 2023. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Theres nothing youll want to see beyond the touristy areas, so familiarize yourself with a map of this city and where they are. are not foreigners but Mexican nationals, but its essential not to wander around alone at night. Dont eat unwashed salad foods, theres a risk of E. Coli poisoning. 7 Day Itinerary to Fiji: A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring Fiji, Where to Travel in South America in August: A Guide to the Best Destinations, Why You Should Think Twice Before Posting on Social Media While on Vacation, Debunking the Myths and Discovering the Thrills of Scuba Diving! Its a good idea to visit them all but I recommend you go with a group. In my opinion, there isnt any upside to driving your car over the border. If you want to see the world, go see it! Colectivos are another great option. Tijuana, the vibrant city of Mexico, has always been a popular destination for American tourists. Make sure all foods are heated all the way through. One of Tijuanas best assets is the delicious food. Dont go where there are few other people in the vicinity; this includes camping in secluded places. From the station, there are signs marking the path toward Mexico. Yes, Tijuana is dangerous. Some go for cheap plastic surgery. Drink spiking is typical, and women should be extra cautious. The cultural center announced it would be . This even goes for trendy clothing. Restaurants and food vendors typically serve purified or bottled water, and the ice from these places is safe. You should have no problems if you avoid the bad areas and dont draw unwanted attention. These informal settlements frequently have increased gang activity and high poverty levels, making them unsafe for Americans to wander around alone. Many drivers may not even have a valid license. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people, and Tijuana has been ranked the most violent city in the world. Despite the danger, many travelers have no issues when traveling to Tijuana. 9,017 posts. Especially near the border. Re: How dangerous is tijuana for a tourist.i hear people ask me. Tijuana is repeatedly cited as being the most dangerous city in Mexico and one of the most dangerous in the world. Tijuana is situated within the Mexican state of Baja California, and the heart of the city is only 5 miles from the Pacific coast. Be wary of attempts at credit-card fraud. Generally, the Eastside of Tijuana is pretty dangerous, so stay west of Zona Rio. In 2017, the murder rate per 100,000 people was 365. Water from hotel vending machines is also safe as its purified water. "It gets categorized and creates this chaos and panic, to go south of the border. Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. Rosarito is generally safe, but avoid isolated areas of the beach, especially at night. Police arent helpful and can be extremely inappropriate. TheFrench governmentwarns against picking up hitchhikers. You can find parking lots on the U. S. side of the border from Tijuana. When he refused, McMillan said, one officer brandished a billy club and the other put him in a headlock. Why does Tijuana have a party reputation? Locals, we go out in the city . As you walk, there will be taxi drivers along the pathway offering their driving services. The center of Ensenada is safe, as is the promenade on the water and its touristy beaches. For about 8 blocks, Revolucin is lined with shops, bars, and restaurants, many aimed at tourists. Theres also the aquarium and much more to see. The Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park in 2023, Is Detroit Safe to Visit in 2023? In this article, Im going to go over some important notes to help you stay safe while in Tijuana. Tourists arent targeted for violence, but that doesnt mean you should tempt fate. Visas - American and Canadian tourists can visit Tijuana for up to 72 hours without a visa. If you must travel to Tijuana right now, it may be best to go on a well-protected tour. With millions of people living within an urban landscape, hardly any civilians see any of the gang-violence themselves. The victims, two men and two women in their teens and early 20s, said they were headed for a night of partying across the border only to be found strangled, stabbed and beaten a few days later. NY Daily News. Airports - General Rodolfo Snchez Taboada International Airport is an international airport in Mexicali. Dont let its fearsome reputation get to you. Is Mexico Safe To Visit? Travel In 2022 - Forbes Bras, money belts or secret bag compartments will do. If you are driving into Mexico, youll need your vehicle registration. Due to the limited food supplies at the time in the region, he invented the caesar salad. They have routes throughout Tijuana. Gangs fight for territory in the city and control dealers on the street level. If you travel to Tijuana, make sure to stay in heavily policed areas known for tourism. It's teeming with crooked police . Tijuana is Mexicos 6th largest city, and its most dangerous. Thats especially true on the weekends when there are large crowds. Its a very safe area, but public transport isnt always available. The accomplice will either stomp your foot or literally strike you. 1. This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. Yes, thats right. Cars are the easiest way to get around the city, but you can get by perfectly fine on foot. Many Americans drive down from San Diego or other California cities and make a road trip to Baja California. It is highly recommended that you avoid walking alone at night and stick to well-known areas. Its essential to check the State Departments current travel advisory and recent safety alerts from the US Embassy in Mexico before your trip, so you are well-informed of any potential dangers. Stick to the touristy areas, travel in a group, and dont listen to strangers on the street, and you can have a wonderful trip. Even if youre in Tijuana for a short time, youre going to see poverty. Although if you travel down to party in the infamous Zona Norte red light district, then youre taking your chances. October 6, 2020: View of poor area of Tijuana Mexico with buildings on hill and traffic in foreground/Manuela Durson/Shutterstock. They are fast and quite clever, so you need to make sure your items are protected. Americans have been traveling across the border for dental work for decades. Theyre like buses but dont have a set schedule. Traveling to Tijuana and Rosarito, Baja California, poses a "serious risk," according to US officials. Lastly, the worst thing you could do is take a lady off the street. Pat-downs . You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Stay in popular tourist-friendly zones. Other things you should watch out for are taxi drivers taking the long way to your destination, trying to convince you that your hotel or restaurant is full and recommending another place. Baja California Sur is safer than Baja California itself. Ensenada has some bad areas, but they tend to be on the citys outskirts. 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. Avoid fast-talkers or beggars asking for something. Just make sure you have at least 3-4 other people with you and things will be fine. Also, the town is dangerous because of territorial disputes between drug cartels, countless scams, and numerous muggings. The fact of the matter, as of recently, the Tijuana police are mostly owned by the cartel. It is Mexicos most populous city with 2,181,000 people, and the 2nd largest city in the country after Mexico City. Cash only. Most of the time, its just not worth it. | Safety Concerns, Is Norway Safe to Visit in 2023? These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. And do not mess with drugs down there. They are going to be looking for anyone by themselves, so its important you dont travel alone there. US warns Tijuana, Rosarito tourists after cartel arrest - inewsource He drove me further into TJ and then let me go. The people who approach you on the street often speak perfect English. He asked about money and I told him his friends already took everything I had. The city has a thriving nightlife, with many bars and nightclubs. In fact, due to corruption and drug violence, Mexico holds the top 5 positions on this list. A San Diego resident said, The worst thing that ever happened to me is I tend to trip on potholes on the sidewalk. A simple rule: if there are families around, youre probably safe. The city has a long and rich history, dating back to pre-Columbian times, and is home to a diverse population of Indigenous peoples, as well as descendants of European immigrants. Just make sure you dont explore the city and get safe credible rides to any place. Swim in choppy waters or when there is a warning flag. Also, your car isnt safe in either parking locations along the border. Unfortunately, its most known for its high crime rate. if you have to go somewhere after the sun goes down. The main reason for the astronomically high murder rate is the gang and. I thought it wasnt to dangerous and it almost cost me my life. They may demand bribes for traffic violations whether or not you actually violated any law. You will need to catch the blue line from any station traveling South toward San Ysidro. Are There Any Dangers for Travelers to Rosarito, Mexico? | Safety Concerns, Written by: Author Andrew Helling |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. Drug sales are done right out in the open here, and often youll witness users getting high just off of the main thoroughfares. Both the U.S. and Tijuana parking isnt great, and there have been many breakins reported in these lots. How Dangerous is Scuba Diving. The Zona Centro is home to many of the best bars and nightclubs, while the Zona Norte is known for its nightlife, cheap drinks, cheap accommodations, and well- its red-light district. Zona Ro, Centro, Hipdromo, Playas are all tourist friendly and safe. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. You can also pay the bribe. Many used to live in the US before they were deported for crimes. Here are a few notable ones: Its really easy to walk into Mexico. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. For a fee of course. There are parking lots where you can park your car and then walk over the border to downtown Tijuana, so theres no real need. Is it safe to go to Tijuana at night? As a border town, its become a melting pot attracting cooks from many different places. In 2019, 1.1 percent of Americans traveling internationally did so for health treatments, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office, although that figure only accounts for those who . If you lose anything due to crime, dont expect to get it back. El Popo Market is also a great place to go to just to see the local products being sold. 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. Tijuana really is the wild west. Additionally, if youre new to Tijuana, it will be hard to find your way at night. July 21, 2021 1:41 PM PT. Are there areas of Tijuana that are safer than others? Tijuana is also perfect for day trips from San Diego. 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. Tip: Street vendors may be selling items like popsicles or slushes that were made from tap water, so avoid the water-based food items from street carts. They arrange you the hotel and a driver to take you from the border to the hotel and drs office. Despite travel warnings from the U.S. State Department, Tijuana is a safe place. However, at night, it gets rather sketchy. Prostitution is legal in Zona Norte, but the area is unsafe. Make no mistakes about it, its dangerous. Its also good to know a bit of Spanish while youre there. Water from hotel vending machines is also safe as its purified water. Close proximity to the US has ensured that Tijuana has imbibed American culture to a significant extent. Dress casual. 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. If you are an expat looking to build wealth, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you achieve your financial goals. Not all the taxis use their meters and can charge you a criminal price when you get to your destination. How Safe Is Mexico for Travel? - Travel Safe - Abroad Millions of Americans have taken day trips to Tijuana and continue to do so. Some places are safe enough to visit, others are too dangerous. Finally, earthquakes may occur from time to time as well. If you must be out and about at night, Avenida Revolucion remains relatively safe, along with Paseo de Los Heroes and Calle Coahuila. Lastly, without a doubt, make sure not to try to walk to the tourist district at night. With recent events transpiring between the United States and Mexico, Tijuana is not a spot you'd want to venture off to right now. I was walking down the street with two police officers walking a head of me. Zona Norte, more than any other part of Tijuana drives tourists to ask the question, is Tijuana dangerous?. I thought that theres cops so Im ok. Long story short I was kidnapped by them forced to drain my bank accounts after handcufffing me and sticking a gun in my mouth. You can arrive at the border by either car, train, or bus. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. I was there to accompany her while she had dental work done at that big black high rise building right over the border. To Americans raised to trust "Officer Friendly," the concept of police and public official corruption may seem difficult to grasp. You're not guaranteed tomorrow, and, often times, you can buy an international plane ticket for less than a domestic one. The checkups arent held routinely though and often are overlooked when pimps bribe authorities. When you ask is Tijuana dangerous?, you wouldnt immediately think about water. And the third type is the most dangerous. Retire Rich, Retire Early: 6 Simple Steps to Help You Achieve Your Financial Dreams! All in all, youll want to keep your head up and your eyes peeled. In the alert from July 4, the U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana said there was "potential for confrontations between criminal . Additionally, the Hong Kong Gentlemens Club is probably the most friendly and conservative for visitors, and it also has a hotel attached (Hotel Cascadas). | Safety Concerns, Is Norway Safe to Visit in 2023? It is also a city full of friendly . ). Either go on a tour, drive down from California, rent a car in Mexico, or hire a private driver for the day. You can get scammed in Tijuana very easily. The further away you get from the touristy area, the more dangerous it gets. I dont no if this cop was good or bad. This goes for tap water and ice cubes. Dont carry expensive bags, wear designer clothes or sporty new shoes. As a guide, you should pay around $5-7 for a taxi from the border to the Centro or . The location also makes it convenient to take your car over the border to drive down the peninsula. Funding the cartels means theyll keep taking over parts of Mexico. It is generally safe to take a licensed taxi in Tijuana, but its important to avoid unlicensed taxis and to be aware of your surroundings. Unless youre a Tijuana local, you probably shouldnt cross the border at night. Of course, there are more than just these crimes. However, food preparation laws are slack here than in America. | Travel Tips & Safety Concerns. in the city. Laws and lights are frequently ignored, and speeding is common. Its very cheap compared to the other forms of transportation available, so it perfect for those visiting Tijuana on a budget. Then, they turn around and tell their corrupt policeman friend about it. While the rise in crime and violence is certainly cause for concern, it is still possible to enjoy all that Tijuana has to offer by taking certain precautions. See my site Policies Drivers in Mexico dont always follow road rules like in the United States. Is Tijuana dangerous to visit? (2023) - Where the Rooster Crows The center of Ensenada is safe, as is the promenade on the water and its touristy beaches. People often give their services without being asked and want to be paid for them. The LAZ and International parking located just outside of the San Ysidro metro station prices are reported as deceptive. There has been a spike in homicides in the last couple of years, due to drug-related gang violence. Graham McMillan was walking down a side street near Avenida Revolucion in Tijuana on a recent Sunday afternoon when he felt a vice-like grip on his elbow. With the highest number of murders per 100,000 people, many news outlets call Tijuana The Most Dangerous City in The World. However, theres a lot of nuance to the situation that makes Tijuana much safer to visit than you think. It is the 6 th largest city in Mexico after all. Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. The same goes for Ensenada. I know why youre most likely going there. Not for the moment. Is Baja California Safe to Visit in 2023? With the highest number of murders per 100,000 people, many news outlets call Tijuana "The Most Dangerous City in The World." However, there's a lot of nuance to the situation that makes Tijuana much safer to visit than you think. Is Tijuana Safe to Visit in 2023? | Safety Concerns | Travellers As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. Is Baja California Safe in 2023? The U.S. Embassy in Mexico warned Americans traveling to Tijuana and Rosarito of heightened risk for violence between cartels after authorities announced the arrest of a high-ranking cartel leader last week. However as it's a popular city, it can easily be reached with domestic flights arriving . Would want to leave our valuables at home and remember to carry small bills for shopping. Spain: A Great Destination for Retirees, Expats, Digital Nomads, and More, Malta: The Mediterraneans Best Kept Secret for Retirees, Expats, and Digital Nomads, Red Eye Flights Pros and Cons of Traveling at Night, Why Portugal is the Best European Retirement Option, The Best Countries to Visit in the Caribbean. Calle Coahuila, the area's main strip, is normally teeming with a frenetic . Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. The fact of the matter is, this happens and theres not much you can do about it. Is Tijuana dangerous for woman to travel to? You dont want to wander around Tijuana at night. Keep your valuables hidden and maintain a low profile. . The worst thing ever to happen to me in years and years of going to Tijuana is that I got ripped off once by a shady taxi driver for an extra US$5. Tijuana is also home to some excellent museums, including the world-famous Museum of Anthropology. By far the biggest risk for travelers in Tijuana is petty crime, including classic travel scams. Did you know the striped painted donkey is called a Zonkey? If you go out for a drink in a touristy club, be extra vigilant about your drink so it does not get spiked. Tijuana, the vibrant city of Mexico, has always been a popular destination for American tourists. Its a very safe area, but public transport isnt always available. Avoid Sanchez Taboada and Camino Verde, along with the citys neighborhoods.