Cars are the easiest way to get around the city, but you can get by perfectly fine on foot. Despite the danger, many travelers have no issues when traveling to Tijuana. Among female crossers surveyed in 2005-2006, 53% reported experiencing some type of victimization, with 29% experiencing moderate physical aggression and 38% experiencing unwanted moderate sexual incidents. The city is famous for profitable drug smuggling routes into the US, and cartels fight tooth and nail over them. The answer is complicated. As a safe bet aim stay vigilant no matter where you find yourself in the country. Millions of Americans have taken day trips to Tijuana and continue to do so. The main reason for the astronomically high murder rate is the gang and. Many police officers in Mexico are highly corrupt. To determine the answer to, is Tijuana Dangerous?, one must look at the facts. For the best beach resort towns, like Cabo San Lucas, youll want to go further south to Baja California Sur. It also advises you to always stick to the main roads and highways. The Valle de Guadalupe (Guadalupe Valley) in Baja California features many wineries and restaurants. Cars are the easiest way to get around the city, but you can get by perfectly fine on foot. Drivers in Mexico dont always follow road rules like in the United States. Tijuana is a tough town, no bones about it. These guys murder like its a hobby for them. Pichardo owns a travel company based in Tijuana. Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. Keep a photocopy of your passport with you at all times. It is always advisable to wear sunscreen when visiting anywhere in Mexico. Funding the cartels means theyll keep taking over parts of Mexico. 2019 was an especially violent year for the city. New York and Chicago have higher crime rates than Baja California. Ensenada has some bad areas, but they tend to be on the citys outskirts. Theres also the aquarium and much more to see. Tijuana is no joke. So, count your change, ignore people approaching you on the street, and look at hotel reviews before you book. Mexico Travel Advisory - United States Department of State I got picked up a third time. In 2017, the murder rate per 100,000 people was 365. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. The further away you get from the touristy area, the more dangerous it gets. SEATTLE . However, food preparation laws are slack here than in America. This is not a city to get lost in. 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. Bridges over the border and across the Tijuana river become dangerous at night. You should pay traffic fines on the officialMultas de Transito (Traffic Fines) government site. Due to its proximity to the border, Tijuana and its surroundings are hotspots of cartel activity. How Safe Is Mexico for Travel? - Travel Safe - Abroad You can also pay the bribe. In that moment of distraction, the thief will then grab your item or bag and run. How Dangerous is Scuba Diving. | Safety Concerns, Where to Stay in Hawaii in 2023 | Best Islands & Hotels, Is Riviera Maya Safe to Visit in 2023? Best Place to Sit on a Plane for Anxiety: A Comprehensive Guide. Menu Menu Location (855) -506-6188 Contact . The only visitors who shouldnt come are solo female travelers, who would be better off taking some companions with them. It has high rates of violent crime and homicide, with a rate of 105 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022. You can get scammed in Tijuana very easily. . Before I continue, its important to distinguish between Baja California and Baja California Sur. Might not be so bad if we go for just one day and we are in a large group. The Easy Way: The San Diego Trolley (which is also sometimes called the Tijuana Trolley), takes you directly to the border crossing. 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. There is a small risk of hurricanes, but generally only during the months right before and after a hurricane season. For one, they are drugs. It's teeming with crooked police . Though it is a very different experience. Theyre like buses but dont have a set schedule. While its the easiest and fastest way to end the situation, youre perpetuating the cycle and telling the police officer its okay to shake down tourists. While in large cities like Mexico City, its progressing rapidly, much of the countrys residents still reside in 3rd world living conditions. The biggest threat in Tijuana is the drug cartel. It is not recommended to travel alone to Tijuana due to the high levels of crime and violence. 1. How To Visit Tijuana from San Diego - Complete Guide Gangs fight over territory, and cartels wage war over profitable smuggling routes in the US. Tijuana is Mexico's 6th largest city, and it's most dangerous. The fact of the matter is, Tijuana has a long history with party-goers. Various illegal activities occur near the border, and you never know what youll bump into. La Ruta 3 in Revolucin always has the best waitresses, very friendly. | Safety Concerns, Written by: Author Andrew Helling |Reviewed by: Editorial Team. Violent crime is possible as well. In addition, you will notice more potholes and poorer road conditions than in San Diego, so drive slowly. Staying Safe In Tijuana: What Tourists And Residents Need To Know. If you lose anything due to crime, dont expect to get it back. Cash only. Theyre there to prevent violent crime against tourists, not to help you. If you want to visit the beach, Rosarito is a much safer town that offers a much better beach. While the rise in crime and violence in Tijuana is concerning, its important to remember that it is not the whole story. Areas frequented by tourists are generally safe in Tijuana, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings at all times and avoid walking in bad neighborhoods at night. Here are a few notable ones: Its really easy to walk into Mexico. Keep a solid buzz, don't get drunk. Also, like Tijuana, Ensenada has a Zona de Tolerancia a tolerance zone where prostitution is legal. Dangers on the road come in two forms. Finally, avoid wandering around near the border except for the. Various cartel groups and gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths. Its no joke down there in Zona Norte. Tijuana, the vibrant city of Mexico, has always been a popular destination for American tourists. By far the biggest risk for travelers in Tijuana is petty crime, including classic travel scams. Here is a list of 10 safety tips you should follow when visiting Tijuana: When traveling to any new destination, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers that may await you. As for places to visit (other than bars) I like the Tijuana Cultural Center. Due to the limited food supplies at the time in the region, he invented the caesar salad. Ultimately, its up to each individual to weigh the risks and make an informed decision about whether or not to visit the city. They can stop you on the street and pat you down to find something to charge you a fine for. They might get so frustrated they simply leave. This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. These informal settlements frequently have increased gang activity and high poverty levels, making them unsafe for Americans to wander around alone. These include the downtown area, the Zona Rio, Zona Centro, Zona Norte, and the beaches. The rates appear to be daily, although they are in 8-10 hour increments. My dad is one of them. The earthquake risk is very low in Tijuana. This is what most day-trippers to Tijuana experience, and it should go without saying that Revolucion is not representative of Tijuana and certainly not of Mexico. wikivoyage.org. Is Tijuana Safe? Our Guide To The Mexican Border Town There are three types of thieves youll come across in Tijuana. In fact, all of Mexico's popular tourist areas are relatively safe, so whether you're traveling for the beach or the culture, you can be assured you'll be welcomed and safe. , some kidnapping victims claim that police officers have been involved in their kidnappings. You dont want to wander around Tijuana at night. Missing something? From Cartels to Contraband: Unveiling the Worlds Top Drug Smuggling Hotspots! Youll have a great time and be back before dark. Remember, even though youre only a stones throw away from the United States, your rights as a U.S. citizen are seriously compromised while in Tijuana. There are good police officers, and if you break the law, you should pay a legitimate fine or jail time. Tijuana is a fun place with great shopping and excellent food. Indeed Tijuana has a lot of great shopping, nightlife, and attractions to enjoy as long as you take some basic safety precautions. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Tijuana really is the wild west. During the day, in the safe neighborhoods and places, nothing will happen. Healthcare in Mexico for Americans: Visit a Clinic, Go to the Dentist Avoiding Unprofessional or Unlicensed Doctors. In addition, you will notice more potholes and poorer road conditions than in San Diego, so drive slowly. With its stunning beaches, delicious food, and lively culture, it's no wonder why so many Americans are drawn to this city.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. Dont take your phone out in busy areas. The city is a great base for exploring Baja Californias wine country, as well as the beaches and resorts on the Pacific coast. The key is to be aware of the risks and take precautions to stay safe. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. However, at night, it gets rather sketchy. Bras, money belts or secret bag compartments will do. Pickpocketing, muggings, and home break-ins are all risks to be wary of. Troops patrol Tijuana as city emerges from cartel-fueled night of Theres a LOT to see here so this is a must-visit if you have kids. Unfortunately, its most known for its high crime rate. You may even have trouble finding a taxi, and Uber may not work as you get further away from the city. Im sure TJ has its charms but it wouldnt be my first pick on a list of bad cities. Tijuana is not an area that has been the target of terrorist threats in recent history. On Thursday I went to the the center of town and did some shopping. However, theres a lot of nuance to the situation that makes Tijuana much safer to visit than you think. Tijuana is repeatedly cited as being the most dangerous city in Mexico and one of the most dangerous in the world. I dont no if this cop was good or bad. I thought it wasnt to dangerous and it almost cost me my life. Privacy Policy. Theres nothing youll want to see beyond the touristy areas, so familiarize yourself with a map of this city and where they are. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. This one neighborhood is more infamous than any other there. | Travel Tips & Safety Concerns, Is Albania Safe in 2023? It is the 6 th largest city in Mexico after all. Close proximity to the US has ensured that Tijuana has imbibed American culture to a significant extent. In almost all cases, there is a lot of commotion and distractions going on around you, so it makes it easy for the thief to steal from you. They may demand bribes for traffic violations whether or not you actually violated any law. To Americans raised to trust "Officer Friendly," the concept of police and public official corruption may seem difficult to grasp. See this list of some of the. An accomplice or two will be waiting to mug you. However, it does have cartel activity, and crime is also a risk. The price depends on the day of the week, time of the day, the season, and whether you chose an . Be aware of pickpockets on public transport and in transportation stations. However, is Baja California safe for tourists, both single tourists and families? However, all bets are off during the night when the most crime occurs, so you should strive to be indoors at your hotel or back in San Diego by the time the sun sets. I was there to accompany her while she had dental work done at that big black high rise building right over the border. SAN DIEGO (AP) President Joe Biden scrapped expedited asylum screenings during his first month in office as part of a gutting of Trump administration border polices that included building a . However, the greatest risk is the heat, especially in the summer when the temperature can rise above 100 degrees. And do not mess with drugs down there. Come with me, to the car, said the uniformed police officer. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Its the main historic street of Tijuana and is also referred to as Zona Centro. Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. The tourist locations are the safest part of the city. The main driving point of crime is a large number of drug cartels moving into the city. As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. After all, much of the economy there is based on tourism from the United States. New travel advisory for Tijuana and Rosarito - KGTV The most dangerous neighborhoods in Tijuana are those that are known for being a center of drug trafficking and organized crime. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. The most common of these in this Mexican city is overcharging. Essentially, this is an age-old story that repeats itself about every decade in Mexico. Be vigilant, pay attention, and always have a good understanding of where you are. Especially near the border. Its not an easy place to live. Reluctantly, McMillan followed the officer and his colleague to the patrol car, where he was ordered to get in the back seat. Finally, earthquakes may occur from time to time as well. To get there, use the train ride on the Imperial Way blue line (bright-red Tijuana Trolley) from San Diego. As always, watch out for pickpockets and be careful when walking alone at night. If you lose anything due to crime, dont expect to get it back. Many police officers in Mexico are highly corrupt. He says the tourist areas are safe. Tijuana has a lot of great food. | Safety Concerns. In front of the Cecut, or cultural center in Tijuana, a confused American tourist wondered whether it was safe to take out his camera and take pictures. People often give their services without being asked and want to be paid for them. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. So be sure to avoid sketchy areas and always be aware of your surroundings. "To put things in perspective, Matamoros is about 1,360 miles away from Cancun," Rabinor said, according to CNN. Another area to avoid in Tijuana is Zona Centro, or the citys center. Travelers should avoid remote areas as well as non-tourist areas because the main highway is generally safe, but non-tourist areas can also have high homicide rates. Stratfor Worldview. 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! Because the rates of taxis are not always consistent, I would suggest taking an Uber there. The one and only famous caesar salad was invented in none other than Tijuana. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. When downtown, you can visit historic landmarks, museums, art galleries, and cultural centers. If youre a woman then take extra care about what you drink (they can spike the drinks) and dont go outside alone to smoke or just go on walks. Is Tijuana safe to travel to right now? : r/tijuana - Reddit US dollars are accepted in Tijuana but not everywhere. Dont let its fearsome reputation get to you. 1 of 3 expats return home because of these things. Dont have ice with drinks and only drink from factory-sealed bottles. Yes, travelling alone in Mexico is safe. We use analytics to understand and improve the website experience, and we do not sell or share any data with a 3rd-party. This is a cartel-operated area. But the water in Mexico isnt safe to drink. Tijuana Travel Guide: Is Tijuana Safe to Visit? [2023] Staying in well-lit areas with high foot traffic, Being aware of your surroundings and any suspicious activity, Using licensed taxi services and avoiding public transportation. The LAZ and International parking located just outside of the San Ysidro metro station prices are reported as deceptive. He kept asking me To describe them but I told him I didnt remember. Most of them list the fines as 5,000 pesos ($500), but you can argue them down to 500 to 1000 pesos ($25-$50). However, most of the time, its too much trouble for them, and they drop the matter entirely. Caesars Restaurant is on Avenida Revolucion in downtown Tijuana. Is Baja California Safe in 2023? | Safety Concerns | Travellers Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. Try using a taxi booked through a hotel or Uber. Various people will try to take advantage of you, so just be aware of your surroundings and don't trust anyone that you don't know. | Safety Concerns, Is Norway Safe to Visit in 2023? If they accuse you of a crime, the best response is to get a paper ticket and then head to the police station to pay it. And its mostly centered around gang and cartel violence, where tourists arent targeted. 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. For a fee of course. Note that travel advisory warnings change all the time. Sometimes they work in groups. The city has been plagued by drug cartels, gang violence, and human trafficking, leading to a rise in homicides and other violent crimes. Road signs and markings may be missing or not well organized. It will take about 45 minutes. Also, like Tijuana, Ensenada has a Zona de Tolerancia a tolerance zone where prostitution is legal. And Juarez has long been known as the place El Chapo and many other infamous drug kingpins reside. It was the second Latin-American country to enact anti-discrimination laws for the LGBTQ+ community and in 2011 the Mexican Constitution . Yes, driving to Tijuana is safe. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we see from our readers about staying safe in Baja California. Check it out. At best, if you get too drunk and pass out, youll be robbed. Looking back, his stomach dropped. So, dont buy drugs in Tijuana. There are 134 murders per 100,000 people. Uber is a better alternative since Uber sets the rates. With a population of 1,763,197, there are 134 murders per 100,000 people. Read more about protecting your valuables and the bag I use that has a hidden passport pocket. Happy travels! After they got the money and let me go. A homeless man who witnessed the cop dragging me out of the car approached me and bought me a coke and I sat with him and then the driver from the drs office appeared after my fianc using find my friends gave him my location and got me back to the hotel. 2023 Copyright by Travel Safe - Abroad. However, higher-magnitude earthquakes may happen as well. This is an interactive science museum which keeps kids entertained through games and exhibitions. As a guide, you should pay around $5-7 for a taxi from the border to the Centro or . Some people even rent or buy camper vans and sleep on the road. You can find souvenirs here and also get a chance to taste some of the local, delicious food. Americans Kidnapped in Mexico"We have no power to get anyone out of jail or to represent anyone in a criminal proceeding if they get in . Tijuana - yay or nay? : r/travel - Reddit Two men were killed and a third person was wounded during a shooting in a Seattle park Saturday night, police said. They sit at their stops until they have a full bus and then stop. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. Taxi drivers may try taking you to restaurants or hotels. Walking just a few blocks beyond these well-patrolled areas can land you in the wrong part of town. You can find parking lots on the U. S. side of the border from Tijuana. Dont go wandering around this neighborhood, because trouble will find you. Its a huge red-light district, and its the largest in North America. However, with a little bit of common sense and caution, most tourists experience no problems while visiting Tijuana.