If you have more time and are in good health, you should stop by guanajuato. The next day we took a bus to San Miguel de Allende (about 1.5 hours away) and that seemed fine and safe as well (recommend the first-class bus for sure!). Mexico has once again dominated a list of the most violent cities in the world but smaller towns have now shot up the rankings, reflecting new hotspots where criminal groups are fighting for control. The hills were once honeycombed with tunnels and there are several privately run ventures offering a peek underground. Recently rated by Lonely Planet as one of the Top 8 places to (safely) visit in Mexico, visitors have little to worry about while staying in Guanajuato. Foreign Earned Income Exclusion: Expat Taxes, 8 Best Romantic Mexican Movies for Valentines Day. Eight days after authorities arrested El Marros family members, a state judge ordered them released and threw out the case for lack of evidence a decision that Lpez Obrador blamed on inefficiencies and corruption in the Guanajuato justice system. Press the escape button to close the calendar. It would be best to only use cash, by keeping most in your hotel safe and taking small amounts out with you. We walked around, the three of us, eating, drinking, dancing, and just enjoying ourselves. How dangerous is Guanajuato, Mexico? CSRL, one of Mexicos newest and most dangerous cartels, is based in the state of Jalisco. Police searched residences and seized vehicles, but El Marro escaped, possibly through an underground tunnel complex authorities later discovered. The city's known for its silver mining history and colonial architecture. Is Guanajuato city safe for travels as foreigners? But I never found my son.. The third largest municipality in Mexico, with a population of 1,721,215 people or . If traveling alone, exercise extra caution, be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close. Choose date and time. Now he is 54 and leads the Jalisco New Generation cartel, a syndicate that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration says has used extreme violence to muscle its way into 24 of Mexicos 32 states. Youll have an unforgettable trip if you make the right decisions when you arrive at your destination. Do not accept drinks from strangers as they might be spiked. At the end of the tunnel, the callejaones appeared to be the light. Crime in Guanajuato usually involves thieves wanting money. There are some parts of the country where illegal roadblocks have also been reported. There has been a significant increase in violence in the city of Guadalajara recently as a result of land disputes between the Cartels. Even though there is not a high risk of females being attacked in Guanajuato, it is better for them to choose the safer option and not to walk alone at night than the riskier one. The narrow streets, alleyways, and tunnels are iconic to the area. However, if you don't want to stay there overnight, you can see the . In order not to become a victim of a scammer, you should remain watchful of your surroundings and keep an eye on drinks and food you order. Fill out the form below and click the link or image above to get a free quote. Image by: https://layerculture.com. The ONLY thing that I think seemed a little sketchy was on our last night, we took an Uber to the airport, and a mile or so before we got there, he pulled off the freeway onto a street that paralleled the freeway. Guanajuato is in the region known as El Bajo, a relatively high-altitude area with a semi-dry climate. The Expat Guide to Living in Mexico is an online magazine designed for both current and aspiring expats. 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.". The majority of people drive safely in Mexico City, but there are some who feel the need to drive. The city has a low crime rate and is very welcoming to tourists. It is a dangerous place to visit due to the drug cartels, gang-related violence, and kidnappings. The third wave appears to be fading in all 32 states, according to Deputy Health Minister Hugo L*pez-Gatell. Airport: Guanajuatos airport aka Bajo International Airport lies 30km west of Guanajuato city. The Callejn del Beso (Alley of the Kiss) is named as such because the balconies are close enough for a couple to reach across and kiss. Taxis: From the airport, taxis operate a fixed-rate fare system, with rides direct to central Guanajuato (45min) around 485 pesos. Compared with other cities in Mexico, San Miguel de Allende is safe to walk around during both the day and night. The city is very small and you can easily walk around, which is the best way to get to know all the secret treasures it has to offer. Its not for everyone, but the Museo de las Momias Museum of the Mummies is Guanajuatos kookiest sight. The next month a handwritten banner appeared outside the Pemex refinery in Salamanca with a message for the new president: Troops and federal police who remain in the area will be killed. From the coast, the most direct route to Texas is through Guanajuato. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Simply enter your email address below and well send you a free special report Mexico: The Perfect Close-to-Home Retirement Haven. According to reports, Merida is also the safest place in Mexico to live and travel. The Clnica La Presa, in one of the citys central neighborhoods, serves medical needs. We went to many bars and clubs in addition to museums and other sightseeing (day and night). Buses: Comfortable, first-class buses link Guanajuato with Guadalajara (4 hours), Mexico City (5 hours), Quertaro (2hr 30min), and San Luis Potos (3 hours) throughout the day. Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta are the safest areas in Mexico to visit. A month later, at least three people were killed in a commando-style raid on a church during a wedding gathering in the small town of Pelavacas. Guanajuato capital receives a lot of tourists every year and it is safe, another town San Miguel de Allende has a good number of US citizens living there and it is also a safe city. Guanajuato was one of the world's silver-extraction capital during the 18th century. Mexican authorities had already lost control of security in much of the country when President Andrs Manuel Lpez Obrador took office in December 2018. The threat of drug-related violence between security forces and drug militias is always present. Irapuato is generally considered a safe city. TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : HIGH . Hes also a sign of Mexicos healthcare crisis, Chicago Mayor Lightfoot ousted; Vallas, Johnson in runoff, announced the arrest of El Marro, along with five others, Mexico arrests El Marro, gang leader at the center of a bloody cartel war, TikTok faces bans in a number of countries over security fears. An eSIM works in the same way that a traditional app does: you purchase it, download it, and then use it. This June, a military-led operation in Guanajuato resulted in the arrests of more than two dozen of El Marros alleged confederates including his mother, sister and cousin and prompted supporters in areas under his gangs control to block streets, set vehicles ablaze and torch a furniture store. It is caused by a variety of factors, including high crime and kidnapping rates. Back then the building was used a grain warehouse and part-time prison. Crime involving drugs has increased in Mexico in recent years, but it primarily affects tourists. Tourists who have been vaccinated against the H1N1 virus will be able to enter the United States from Mexico beginning Monday. After a short siege, all the defenders (some 300 men) were slaughtered. Guanajuato Spanish Schools Safety. Always carry your sunscreen. Beginning in January 2022, all incoming passengers will be required to be vaccinated against various diseases. And in recent years there has been a tendency for an increase in the number of crimes. Relatives of victims wait in anguish for news after a shooting July 1 at a drug rehabilitation center in Irapuato, Mexico. You have a strong connection. The first battle of the Mexican War of Independence was fought at Guadalajara, Mexico. El Menchos mob has blamed El Marro for the massacre. What is the safest city in Mexico? Though Guanajuato is not as well known in this regard as the expat haven of San Miguel de Allende, about 90 minutes away, Guanajuatos art scene is increasingly lively. It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its signature architecture, silver mines, and rich history. Forensic service personnel prepare to enter the drug rehabilitation center in Irapuato after the massacre. Visit the Mummy Museum (Museo de las Momias) 8. Mexico has long been regarded as a dangerous place for criminals to live. Its possible that Ecuador has a lower rate of crime because the police force is not as well-paid and trained as the Mexican police force, and the state government is ineffective at disciplining criminals. Is Guanajuato safe? There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no exception. We did notice some political statements through the trip: graffiti on the steps of the Juarez Theatre: GTO estado feminicidad which basically means GTO kills women just for being women, and a few posters on the streets mentioning that GTO discriminates against people who arent blonde-haired and blue-eyed, etc. Rosa Alba Santoyo Soria is comforted by a friend. Ecuador is a pleasant country to visit, but it is not as safe as Mexico. The most common type of crime in Guanajuato is theft, followed by drug-related crimes. The balcony is named after the song Alley of the Kiss because there is enough space for a couple to reach across and kiss. Guanajuato City actually has a low violence rate - using intentional homicides as a measure, Guanajuato City has an annual rate of 9.23 per 100K population compared to some US cities*: Flint, MI 62.0 per 100K, West Palm Beach 16.6 per 100K, San Bernadino, CA 21.9 per 100K or to the US Virgin Islands at 49.3 per 100K of population. For the tourist it is fine. The quick answer: Yes! If youre avoiding taxis, there are a number of ride-sharing services available. That recommendation was made more than 25 years ago. The attack was the bloodiest episode in a wave of violence that has seen once-tranquil Guanajuato become one of Mexicos deadliest states. Make time for the Teatro Jurez and Museo Regional de Guanajuato. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Diego Rivera only lived here until the age of six, but the museum makes the most of the connection, with the lower floor furnished in a period 19th-century style, and the upper floors displaying Riveras works, mostly sketches and early paintings. Guanajuato is best explored on foot so staying in the historic center of the city makes the most sense and is far more atmospheric than lodging in the outskirts. Tours to the statue are offered all over Guanajuato, but there are also public buses from the central bus station for independent trips. For shopping, Guanajuato has a nearby mall, several supermarkets, and two traditional markets in the historic center. In fact, everyone in GTO was frankly incredibly nice. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. It was the highlight of my trip when we went on a nighttime tour. It's also a great place to spend the day if you're looking for a city with a lot to offer. However, like any large city, there are areas that are best avoided. Guanajuato state does frequently make headlines for being a more violent part of Mexico; but is the city safe for tourists? (Rental properties, however, are relatively scarce, and some properties for sale may require renovation.). Guanajuato is a colonial city located in central Mexico with a rich history. Tambin se ingres una seccin que integra a las personas ms donantes . These cookies do not store any personal information. Although the restaurant is situated away from the city center, it's worth the trip. The main bus station (Central de Autobuses) is 6km west of the center buses can be a hassle with luggage and the easiest option is to take a taxi. According to the measurement, which offers a balance for 2020, the capital of Potos has a rate of 37,400 victims per 100,000 inhabitants, only below Toluca, capital of the State of Mexico, with 38,300. Students report feeling safe. We took a flight from Tijuana and landed in Leon, and took an Uber from the airport. Yes, Leon Guanajuato is a generally safe place to visit. In 99% of cases, it does not involve tourists or visitors, but it can still happen. Direct flights to Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, and Los Angeles are available through U.S. carriers American, Delta, and United. . Guanajuato is crammed with elegant colonial churches, but this is one of the best, built by the Jesuits and consecrated in 1765 (the Jesuits were kicked out of Mexico just two years later). The city of Guadalajara is an excellent choice for those looking for a charming city to spend some time in, as well as those who are interested in visiting Mexico as a whole. Yes, Mexico City is safe. 2023 Tour By Mexico. The second museum was devoted to mining and minerals. Is Guanajuato safe? The city can be affected by earthquakes, as most parts of Mexico are prone to them. Nonetheless, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and use common sense. My coworkers family just got back from Irapuato and she said drug cartels are everywhere. Date format is yyyy/MM/dd. Its climate is pleasantly temperate: Lows during the short winter rarely drop below the high 40s F, while highs in spring (the hottest season) are generally in the 80s F, peaking in the 90s F for short periods. The government is just trying to protect both tourists and residents of possible criminal acts. Veritable rivers of gold and silver were mined in the mountains around Guanajuato and shipped to Spain. The museum holds a macabre collection of mummified human corpses, displayed in glass cases. And some parts of Mexico . Thanks to the large student presence, Guanajuatos vibe skews young and lively. Put 500 pesos . Very safe, be it on your own or in a tour. Guanajuatos brightly painted homes also climb up the hillsides above the center. " Following numerous . Nonetheless, keep in mind that you will be less likely to be targeted if you are not directly involved in the violence. The citys colonial architecture, with brightly colored mansions, is a testament to its history. Guanajuato state - Reconsider Travel Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping. Got tips, tricks & advice we can learn from? My impression of Guanajuato is that it's a relatively (campared to much of Mexico) safe place to live and move about and that one need not be preoccupied with his/her safety or the safety of children. We were close to the Plaza Mexiamora, which was very cute and nice to walk by each night. Kiss in the Callejon del Beso 2. The historic center and much of the city of Guanajuato, including where your Spanish school is located, are quite safe for living and walking. Its dedicated to San Diego de Alcntara, aka Didacus of Alcal, a 15th-century Spanish missionary to the Canary Islands. There has been a significant increase in crime and violence throughout the United States. Although the state of Guanajuato overall is considered a hot zone for narco-related issues, it's relatively safe for tourists to visit. Take a taxi or walk from the Jardn de la Unin (30 min). El Marro, or Sledgehammer, an enterprising local criminal whose real name is Jos Antonio Ypez Ortiz, began to make headlines for allegedly stealing more than a million dollars worth of fuel a day from the many pipelines radiating from a government-owned oil refinery in the city of Salamanca. Patio de Piedra. In a word, yes, Guanajuato is safe. The Jardin de la Union, located in the heart of the city, serves as the citys central square. Many major thoroughfares in the city center are actually underground tunnels. Millions visit Guanajuato each year, drawn to the urban beauty which has earned it the tag of the most beautiful city in Mexico. There is never a guaranty of complete safety when traveling anywhere, even within the US and Europe, yet by working with a trusted and professional destination specialist, like Journey Mexico, travelers minimize risk by relying on experts to keep them in the right places. Experts have concluded that if you stick to popular destinations like San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato City, and the magical towns of Hildados and Mineral de Pozos, you will be statistically safe while visiting the city of Guadalajara. There are a lot of churches and cathedrals that were very ornate and beautiful and worth visiting. According to accounts from officials and neighbors, three men with assault weapons entered the facility shortly after 5 p.m. The crime rate in Guanajuato, Mexico is relatively low compared to other parts of the country. To help you plan your trip to Mexico, weve compiled a list of the absolute most dangerous areas as well as some safe ones. When coming to Guanajuato, you should monitor local advice, remain vigilant and follow the advice of the local authorities. It is safe to take day trips throughout the state of Guanajuato. Mexico has a diverse range of resources, from food to culture to music to history to the environment. Whatever I say, it wont make a difference. It is safe to travel from the airports (Leon, Queretaro, Mexico City) to San Miguel either by car, shuttle, or bus. Basilica de Guanajuato, Calle Ponciano Aguilar 7, Centro, 36000 Guanajuato, +52 473 732 0314 . The Most Beautiful City In Mexico: Guanajuato. The citys colonial architecture and tree-lined plazas are well-known tourist attractions, and visitors from all over the world come here to enjoy them. Re: how safe is Guanajuato? Due to the fact that there has been a number of reported shooting incidents and other incidents of violence, tourists should not get afraid or worried if a police officer stops them and ask for identification. Summary about cost of living in Queretaro, Mexico: Family of four estimated monthly costs are 1,611$ (33,422MXN) without rent. Has anyone traveled here this year 2021? 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