If you are kidnapped, never resist. We are going to travel to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? We did go to La Paz and a bit into Cabo, but we didnt really stay in the city there too much. We have broken down in the hot time of year and it is miserable while getting our vehicle fixed. Note that travel advisory warnings change all the time. Photo: Cvmontuy, CC BY-SA 4.0. Many illegitimate vehicles wait outside the airport. Should we not go to the same grocery store or market? Bring extra supplies! We are going to travel to Cabo soon, and I was surprised to see Cabo San Lucas on some travel sites, number one of 10 of tourist places with more crime in Mexico, and on the travel gov site the advisory for reconsider travel to Baja California due to crime and kidnapping ( no advisory some time ago). Personalisierte Inhalte und Werbung knnen auch relevantere Ergebnisse, Empfehlungen und individuelle Werbung enthalten, die auf frheren Aktivitten in diesem Browser, etwa Suchanfragen bei Google, beruhen. The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 We do not consider Tijuana to be a safe place to visit at this time. If you plan on going off the big roads and highways, we suggest using more detailed maps of Baja California. Thats especially true on the weekends when there are large crowds. Its important to realize that driving in Mexico is not like driving in the United States. You will also see them standing around town sometimes. We had heard it is actually illegal to drive at night if you arent from Baja not sure if that is true, but we were happy to not test it. Finally, avoid wandering around near the border except for the official border crossings. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-111081281', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Cabo soon, and I was surprised to see Cabo San Lucas on some travel sites, number one of 10 of tourist places with more crime in Mexico, and on the travel gov site the advisory for reconsider travel to Baja California due to crime and kidnapping ( no advisory some time ago). Basket and plate weaving from the indigenous Kumiai at the Community Museum in Tecate, Baja Calfornia. Homicides declined in the first three municipalities in the three months between August and October compared to the same period of 2020, according to official data, but increased in Mexicali. for warnings about hurricanes, Zika, and other diseases and natural disasters. These motorcyclists are often in a hurry, as many deliver food for apps like Rappi or Uber Eats. 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. Golf course, community center and all. Thank you so much for your information. The Baja California peninsula consists of two states, Baja California to the north and Baja California Sur at the lower end of the peninsula. Think random potholes and topes (speed bumps). Police officers guard a crime scene where a man was killed by gun fire in downtown Tijuana, Baja California state, Mexico, on April 21, 2019. Map of Baja California (Full) By MND Staff. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. We were only in San Jose for a day so I cant say much specifically on that city. Scammers call demanding ransom for a fake kidnapping or money for a relative in trouble. Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. Some plastic surgeons may not have the proper licenses. Start Here Mexico Is Baja California Safe in 2023? Except that one time we got home after dark from San Jose Del Cabo . Plus, like I mentioned above, once we were here the fear melted away. . The authors of the Baja California Almanac also create excellent folding maps of Baja California. However, bear in mind that it is illegal. However, travelers should know that pickpocketing can occur. These data are based on perceptions of visitors of this website in the past 3 years. So, is Baja safe? The first is the driving behavior of other motorists. Even though how safe is Loreto Mexico to drive depends on you exercising caution and staying alert, navigating traffic in this small town makes exploring the Baja Peninsula easy. Why did this happen? Stats show eight people are killed in a "violent manner" every day in the state directly south of California.. I also don't recommend going to south, east or southeast part of the city (there's nothing to see there anyways). de Tijuana, B.C.N. Besides good food and affordable medical care, theres just not much to see in Tijuana as a tourist. Criminal Justice Information Services Division, FBI.gov is an official site of the U.S. Department of Justice. Check theNational Hurricane Center for hurricane warnings. Driving through Baja is generally safe. The town of Primo Tapia is located in the Municipality of Playas de Rosarito (in the State of Baja California). The entire area is seedy, and bad things can go down quickly. Discover Baja Travel Club 8322 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. In fact, Baja offers quite a few exploits, perhaps unknown to those who just venture down for the Spring Break hysteria. didnt mean to do that and were very happy once we got back to the RV! I really dont think anything would have happened, but we just figured it made sense to do that. No way. Watch out for drivers who are speeding or driving while drunk. TIJUANA (Border Report) The border state of Baja California overall is Mexicos most crime-ridden when it comes to murders, crimes against women and auto theft, according to the National Public Safety System in Mexico. Twenty eight vehicles were damaged including 17 in Tijuana, three in Rosarito, two in Tecate, four in Ensenada, two in Mexicali. The most famous towns exist on the tips of the peninsula Mexicali, Tijuana, Ensenada, Rosarito to the north, and Los Cabos, La Paz, and Loreto to the south. Is Baja California Safe to Visit in 2023? Mexican authorities arrested a man on suspicion of killing two San Diego retirees last summer, then dumping their bodies . A research team from the University of Guadalajara is racing to save the famed islands' Giant Daisy Tree from extinction from blackberries. A two-day drive, over 550 miles of winding roads through the mountains, will take you the length of the state from Guerrero Negro to Cabo San Lucas. Hey! Watching Out for Earthquakes, Hurricanes, and Diseases, Both earthquakes and hurricanes can occur in Mexico, according to the, There is also a risk of Zika virus along the coast, according to. We hope that you find these tips helpful on your travels. south of the border) or Ensenada (90 minutes south of the border) we feel that because of some past violence in these areas it is best to advise travelers to drive through them, as well, and continue south. CLICK HERE TO CONTACT OUR VILLA SPECIALISTS TODAY, Transpeninsular Km 3.5 #706 Patio La Luna, El Tezal, Copyright 2009 - 2023 All rights reserved by Cabo Platinum. Therefore, arranging private transportation is critical before visiting wineries in Guadalupe Valley. Crime Rate. According to the information provided by Municipal Public Security, a 27-year-old woman, Id definitely suggest keeping your plans and I hope you enjoy Baja as much as we did! However, look for a place popular with locals and tourists, as the ingredients will be fresher. The entire expanse of this territory that goes from the border with the United States to meet the Lands End or Finisterre where the Sea of Cortez joins the Pacific Ocean, is home of the best places to live in Baja Mexico preferred by North Americans and Canadians to retire in Baja California. The U.S. State Department has issued a travel advisory for Baja California in Mexico, which includes the sprawling border city of Tijuana, due to high rates of crime and kidnapping, the. If you stay in the "tourist" areas, (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Be wary of fake police officers as well, and always ask to see an ID and speak to a superior. 1886 Baja California Map. Now we hear the most terrifying stories about street checkpoints, murder, kidnapping. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. Crime is another issue that should concern you. Image from Google Street View. For the last 6+ years they have explored all over North America and share their top tips on things to do in locations with kids, along with road trip ideas and tips on RVing. It really is just like going anywhere in the US. One of the reasons the State Department increased Baja Californias advisory to a Level 3 warning was the arrest of a cartel leader, which led to increased violence between cartels and the police, according to theUS Embassy in Mexico. After 4 years on the road, I kind of knew this, so that is what I was telling myself the night before we crossed the border. 0.126 ac Lot Size. The officials told Milenio that different criminal cells dominate different parts of Tijuana. This means that the rates of Covid-19 infections continue to be high, which is why they recommend that the country not be visited. At one point I thought, Man, I will be so happy once we cross back into the US . neue Dienste zu entwickeln und zu verbessern, Werbung auszuliefern und ihre Wirkung zu messen, personalisierte Inhalte anzuzeigen, abhngig von Ihren Einstellungen, personalisierte Werbung anzuzeigen, abhngig von Ihren Einstellungen. Crime in Tijuana, Mexico Compare Tijuana with: Do you live in Tijuana? BCS has the longest coastline of any of the Mexican states with an impressive 1,243 miles. Be wary of any calls asking for payment. It says criminal activity and violence, including homicide, are a primary concern throughout Baja California. You should pay traffic fines on the official. Map of Baja California. 36 homes for sale in La Ribera, Baja California Sur, Mexico. While they dont usually target tourists specifically, tourists may get caught up in cartel violence and shootouts between the police and cartels. Crime and Safety in Cabo San Lucas in 2021/2022. The U.S. Department of State recently issued a travel warning for Americans planning of visiting either Tijuana or Baja California in Mexico due to a rise in crime and kidnappings. Various cartel groups and gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths. Dangers on the road come in two forms. Additionally, negotiate the taxi fare before setting out to avoid surprises. Rosarito is listed on the "Nearby cities:" section as a separate city when really it's the same one. Your use of this service is subject to our, Worries being subject to a physical attack because of your skin color, ethnic origin, gender or religion, Problem property crimes such as vandalism and theft, Problem violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery. Is Baja California Safe in 2023? Always check theCDCs travel noticesfor warnings about hurricanes, Zika, and other diseases and natural disasters. When we were driving there were random checkpoints. 2. Not only will it be easier to read the maps, but you wont have the risk of running into roaming cattle at night! 1884 Baja California Map. Of course, it is critical to have situational awareness, even in generally safe areas. / 28.94806N 113.5604000W / 28.94806; -113.5604000. . SEE ALSO: Mexico News and Profiles Crime in Baja California typically falls into one of two categories: cartel activity and thievery. Either go on a tour, drive down from California, rent a car in Mexico, or hire a private driver for the day. Stay in a secure hotel, hostel, or Airbnb instead of camping on the beach. Its worth paying a bit more for a doctor, plastic surgeon, or dentist who has good reviews and recommendations from other foreigners and who speaks English. Wherever you stay, ask your hotel receptionist or Airbnb host about which areas are safe to visit. US citizens need a passport or passport card to cross the border. Photo: Thilver, CC BY-SA 4.0. crime that provide context for current dynamics of the violence in Baja California Sur. | Safety Concerns, Written by: Author Andrew Helling |Reviewed by: Editorial Team, Posted on Last updated: November 22, 2022. Telephone scams targeting tourists are also common in Cabo San Lucas. The cartels control important drug and human trafficking routes across the border. Baja California is safe to travel to with a moderate level of crime. This includes everything from vast and remote deserts, dormant volcanoes and wonderful old mission towns. The US State Department gives Baja California Sur a Level 2 Exercise Increased Caution travel advisory, compared to the Level 3 Reconsider Travel advisory it gives to Baja California. You will need clothes that breathe well and a good full coverage hat. The 2019 study details that the bloody incidents have created a negative image of the tourist gem, which has a . | Safety Concerns. The news frequently highlights violence, drug cartels, and kidnappings in Mexico. However, at night, it gets rather sketchy. 21 Fun Things To Do In Port St Joe Florida, 17+ Fun Things To Do In Philadelphia With Kids [Plus 1 day Itinerary], Best Hikes In Canyonlands National Park [Maps Included]. Just like we would do in Chicago or another city back in the States. Los Barriles - small town on the Sea of Cortez coast, not far from San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. Again it felt a bit odd at first, but you get used to it. As in many Latin American cities, youll notice neighborhoods on the hills surrounding the cities, which often feature colorful houses. Bystanders have received injuries or died in shooting incidents., The State Department goes on to say violence is largely limited to Tijuanas outlying areas and not concentrated in tourist zones, and that criminals do not tend to target U.S. citizens uninvolved in drug trafficking.. Keep a photocopy of your passport with you at all times. The town of the same name is located at the east end of Federal . The safest parts of city are the downtown and Playas de Tijuana. Privacy Policy, CABO IS OPEN | Book your vacation with confidence. Rosarito is generally safe, but crime can still occur. Welcome to Los Cabos. Its improbable that you will be a kidnapping victim, as. The State Department says the Baja California advisory includes Tijuana, Ensenada as well as other locations that are a hot spot for organized crime. Cabo San Lucas Map Located in El Pescadero, very close to Todos Santos, it's a fantastic place to relax and take in some jaw-dropping sunsets. In Baja California, the murder rate this year is 73 per 100,000 residents so far. We met a lot of families who were down here on their own and were totally fine. R-CAPTCHA. The 20 miles of highway that hug the coast below Muleg give access to what are considered by many to be the nicest beaches in all of Baja. Make sure that youre complying with all Mexican road laws and street signs. During the daytime, its mostly safe. I never once had witnessed a murder or heard gun shots. Also, like Tijuana, Ensenada has a Zona de Tolerancia a tolerance zone where prostitution is legal. Most of the crimes of violence occur near the . Mexico : Safety by City. September 11, 2020. However, there are a few tips to reduce risk even further. Violent crime is possible as well. I have never been afraid to travel to Mexico, and been to Cabo before, but Im curious if anyone had any bad experiences with crime. We recommend driving during the daytime while youre in Baja. IP-address: 40.77.190.212. Instead we enjoyed everything else about the cities. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we see from our readers about staying safe in Baja California. 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. It just means we saw how amazing the people are in Baja and how unfounded our fears were. They are shown in red on the map above. A Mexican peninsula extending into the Pacific Ocean from the south end of the U.S. state of California, Baja California provides some of Mexico's most dramatic sea and landscapes. Baja California Sur had the lowest number of homicides in the nation with just 15. We are looking to rent a condo close to the beach and possibly get them into a Spanish speaking preschool to expose them to Spanish. What I have learned as we have been on the road and visiting so many unknown places is that the fear is so much larger in your head than what it really is once you are there. Tourists coming here for diving, fishing, windsurfin. 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. Copyright 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. They have also asked that if you must visit Baja California, Nogales, and Hermosillo, itwould be better to travel during the day to avoid mishaps. Cabo San Lucas is an exciting Baja California Sur retreat that attracts A-list celebrities and visitors from all corners of the globe. As soon as you cross that border, the situation changes drastically. Some go for cheap plastic surgery. Before your trip to Baja California, Mexico, keep the following advice in mind. A gajillion tourists cannot be wrong. #101-102 San Diego, CA 92111 800-727-BAJA (2252) ask@discoverbaja.com Dont let the cheery colors confuse you they paint the houses those colors to make those areas look more welcoming. No. Ensenada has a port that accepts cruise ships, navy base, army base, and Ensenada Airport. warns against picking up hitchhikers. RENTAL CAR SERVICES. However, higher-magnitude earthquakes may happen as well. Baja California is the 12th-largest state by area in Mexico. This week, theUnited StatesDepartment of Stateissued recommendations for North American citizenswho plan to visit Mexico: one is in relation to Covid-19 and another corresponds to the increase in crimes and kidnappings in some states of the Mexican Republic. The people and culture are so nice and family oriented we felt safe and welcomed there. It has magnificent resorts, endless sunshine, and robust party life. Although, we would probably not hesitate to visit Rosarito Beach (45 min. If you are driving into Mexico, youll need your vehicle registration. Millions of tourists visit the area each year without incident. Bryanna has been full time RVing with her husband and 4 kids since May 2014. Buy Baja Real Estate. I always went with them because we heard stories of items being planted, but I never felt that was even a possibility. Please try your request again later. For the best beach resort towns, like Cabo San Lucas, youll want to go further south to Baja California Sur. Thanks. You have to be careful and be aware of your surroundings and be smart. At the present time, with the trouble in the northern border areas we suggest that you fill your gas tank, change some dollars into pesos, get your Mexican Auto Insurance (do all of this on the U.S. side of the border) and drive south! Tourists should also be wary of scams on taxis and rideshare vehicles. Ensenada is a coastal city in Mexico, located on Baja California Peninsula. ***When readers buy products and services advertised on our site, we often earn affiliate commissions that support this website. Look out for crumbling missions, date palms, coconuts and mangrove swamps as you meander southward. Google-Dienste anzubieten und zu betreiben, Ausflle zu prfen und Manahmen gegen Spam, Betrug und Missbrauch zu ergreifen. If you live in Chicago, you know where to go and, more importantly, where not to go. Whether celebrating one year or 50, a trip to Los Cabos is a vacation you will never forget. Violent crime is possible as well. You may encounter one of the 4 or 5 military checkpoints along the road while you are in Baja. The most common trouble Americans will face in Baja California is petty crime. Cabos crime advisory. We spend alot of time in Baja both in the south and in San Felipe. ***This map was specifically designed for one purpose onlyto get you across the border, and into Baja, without getting lost, and getting you out of the Tijuana area ASAP. I do have to say, it would have been a lot harder to get over my fear and to go on our own so it helped a LOT that we were caravanning with my sister and her family (who came down to Baja last year) and my parents. Ensenada is a port city with cruise and cargo ships coming and going. Various cartel groups and gangs often fight for turf, leading to shootings and deaths. I had a stomach ache the night before we were going to go and I just didnt know if we should do it. Crime rates in Baja California - Numbeo Stats show eight people are killed in a violent manner every day in the state directly south of California. Since 1995, Benchmark Maps has been driving and mapping the American West, publishing award-winning recreation maps and atlases. People who flash expensive belongings or money while out in public are often targets of this type of crime. Baja California is the state with the most auto theft in the country with almost 1,900 cars stolen from January through August.