Many major thoroughfares in the city center are actually underground tunnels. Is Guanajuato safe? At the root of the escalating violence is a David-versus-Goliath turf battle between a local mob boss and a multinational drug cartel capo. The second museum was devoted to mining and minerals. How do you get around Guanajuato? Guanajuato, Mexico, is a colonial-era city in the mountains of central Mexico that has a rich history and culture. In 99% of cases, it does not involve tourists or visitors, but it can still happen. Metro is a crowded and chaotic place to go. If you have a choice between driving and being driven, you should have a local expert drive you. This region is home to a number of violent gangs and drug cartels. Mexican authorities had already lost control of security in much of the country when President Andrs Manuel Lpez Obrador took office in December 2018. However, in the last three years, the crime rate has spiked overall in the state of Guanajuato. Expats age 60 and over who have a valid residence visa for Mexico qualify for a retiree cardthe INAPAM cardwhich offers discounts on a variety of goods and services. The city was founded by the silver mines that were discovered in the area in the 16th century, and it has grown to be one of Mexicos most important cities. . A single person estimated monthly costs are 452$ (9,374MXN) without rent. 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.". Dont go where there are few other people in the vicinity; this includes camping in secluded places. Casa Mercedes is perfect for a last night splurge in the city, though its essential to make reservations. Guanajuato state - Reconsider Travel Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping. There are many mines adjacent to the city and you can actually go on an ATV tour to see this area. Guanajuato is a way bigger city compared to San Miguel de Allende and you need more time to see it all and explore all the museums. It is generally a safe city, and as long as you have enough common sense and street smarts, you'll have no problem exploring on your own. The crime rate in Guanajuato, Mexico is relatively low compared to other parts of the country. Ecuador, on the other hand, has a lower homicide rate than most countries, but a higher rate of robbery, assault, and sexual assault. Mexico is a country with a high rate of violent crime, including murder, armed robbery, sexual assault, and kidnapping. There are some parts of the country where illegal roadblocks have also been reported. According to a report by a Mexican non-governmental organization, the Citizen Council for Public Safety and Criminal Justice (Consejo Ciudadano para la Independiente), the most violent city in 2020 was Celaya, a city of about 500,000 people in the central state of Guanajuato. Always carry your sunscreen. Whatever I say, it wont make a difference. On September 15, there were 83,834 active cases reported in Mexico, a 1% decrease from Tuesday, September 14. You have a strong connection. The city of Guadalajara has a large number of squares and plazas. The Guanajuato State is home to the cities of Len, San Miguel de Allende and Santiago de Quertaro. Guanajuato is actually the name for both the state and the city. Re: how safe is Guanajuato? The states silver mines, which are among the worlds richest, have helped the economy grow over the years. Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the island of Cozumel along the Yucatn Peninsula are just a few of the impressive places to see. 2 There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no exception. Ecuador is a pleasant country to visit, but it is not as safe as Mexico. Explore The Music Scene In Tijuana Baja California: Check Out The Top Headliners In The City, Explore The Cost Of Tijuana Hotel Tickets Discover The Discounts And Tips For The Best Experience, Exploring Tijuana: Exploring The Convenient Stops Of Tourismo Express In Downtown Tijuana, Exploring A Vegan Lifestyle In Tijuana: Delicious Vegan-Friendly Options And Tips For A Plant-Based Diet. With a low crime rate, it is a great city to live and raise a family in. World Nomads provides insurance for The Broke Backpacker, and he trusts them with his wildest escapades. The collection includes an array of paintings (including an original a Dal print), murals, tapestries, sculptures, ceramics, glassware, chess pieces, playing cards, and tobacco pipes adorned with images of the hapless knight errant. Parity theft is the most common cause of your problems. The city was founded in 1524, when Juan de Zum*rraga, second bishop of the newly formed diocese of Le*n, established it. Beginning in January 2022, all incoming passengers will be required to be vaccinated against various diseases. Guanajuato city is just fine. When flying, be mindful of being safe and keeping the stopover as short as possible. Natalia Acosta Medina holds a photo of her slain son, Marco Antonio Castillo Medina. They are not a lot to us (a couple of bucks) but they are not reimbursed by Uber and so it really can eat into their fares. If you're looking for something to enjoy with your family in the beautiful city of Guanajuato, you'll want to check out Patio de Piedra. As a result of university and government presence, Guanajuato is one of the most culturally active cities in all of Latin America. For stellar views consider Casa Zuniga, high above the city next to the funicular. I've walked down the streets at night carrying an expensive camera while being a 5'0" woman that looked as if she was 16. A native of the Bronx, McDonnell is a graduate of Columbias Graduate School of Journalism and was a Nieman fellow at Harvard. Back then the building was used a grain warehouse and part-time prison. Its best to take a taxi here. She was El Marros sister. The first museum explored the life and crimes of a Mexican serial killer, Tadeo Fulgenco Mej*a. Cheers! Marro, you are going to end up alone like a dog, says the commander, flanked by dozens of fighters bearing assault rifles and positioned in front of armored vehicles. After a short siege, all the defenders (some 300 men) were slaughtered. Press the down arrow or enter key to interact with the calendar and select a date. Spanish-speakers will get the most out of the jokes and the history, but the music works in any language. It was beautiful, the people were incredibly nice, and we felt very safe the whole time except that weird Uber driver on the last day. Hike or take the funicular up to the Ppila Monument, then stroll through the old city, from the Jardn de la Unin to Mercado Hidalgo. 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. Lots of good local food, everyone was friendly. The streets are all one ways, and not well organized, so sometimes taking Uber is not ideal and takes much longer than walking, FYI. Entrate de las noticias locales, regionales, nacionales e internacionales ms relevantes | el sol del bajo Although the state of Guanajuato overall is considered a hot zone for narco-related issues, it's relatively safe for tourists to visit. #sanmiguel #sanmigueldeallende #mexico #travelsafety For the tourist it is fine. Report inappropriate content 06Mexico_Lover San Jose, CA Level Contributor 3 posts 19 reviews 14 helpful votes 2. For these reasons, Guanajuato is a major tourist destination for Mexicans. That was nice. This, coupled with some friends of friends who had just visited GTO and said it felt very safe, and we decided we would take the risk. Mexico has a high crime rate overall, but it also has a high homicide rate. Guanajuato is also known for its enticing restaurants and bars, historic churches, theaters, and mine museums, but one of the best things to do in Guanajuato is to just wander the streets and squares, enjoying the scene. The best things . The citys premier church lies on central Plaza de la Paz, a large red and tangerine-colored edifice dedicated to the patroness of the city (the Virgin Mary, here in her incarnation as Nuestra Seora de Guanajuato). You can stay updated on travel warnings and safety information at this U.S. Department of State website. Mexico can be dangerous for LGBTQ+ people, depending on where they live. The narrow streets, alleyways, and tunnels are iconic to the area. 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. My coworkers family just got back from Irapuato and she said drug cartels are everywhere. 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. He was discovered later, one of 27 men killed in the July 1 massacre. Most of the crime within this region is down to drug cartels and gang violence. For all that did not know, Guanajuato is the name of a province as well as a city in Mexico, nearby to Mexico City. The Guest Assist app not only provides safety information, legal advice, and a complaint line, but it also includes information on Coronaviruses. " Following numerous . Add a visit to the Museo de las Momias and Museo Casa Diego Rivera, a meal at Casa Mercedes and an afternoon in La Valenciana. Very safe, be it on your own or in a tour. He was a top aide to El Marro. 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. Festivals, open-air performances, parades, and impromptu festivities are common. In general, Guanajuato is considered a safe city, the police are always nearby, and the people are very friendly to tourists. There are a few safe places to visit in Mexico, but not in Guadalajara. However, in the last three years, the crime rate has spiked overall in the state of Guanajuato. The local church is a gorgeous example of 18th-century Mexican Churrigueresque style every inch is covered in gilded sculpture, painting, or ornate plasterwork. The city is home to numerous museums, churches, and other historical landmarks. Airport: Guanajuatos airport aka Bajo International Airport lies 30km west of Guanajuato city. More than two dozen blood-spattered men lay face-down, some with heads split open, others groaning in agony. Mexico has had some of the highest daily COVID-19 prevalence rates since the beginning of the pandemic since last month. Tunnels, underground streets, and the viewpoint of the Rayas mine are some of the highlights of this visit. The small city was vibrant and we felt completely safe while visiting. It is impossible to wander around at night in Mexico City because it is such a large and bustling city. At this time, there is no safety advisory in effect for the city or the state. The government is just trying to protect both tourists and residents of possible criminal acts. A Mexican-French couple shared information about the city. Chef Jess Crdenas helms one of the regions best restaurants, with a menu of high-quality dishes inspired by his childhood in Guanajuato. Is Guanajuato safe? Special correspondent Cecilia Snchez contributed to this report. San Luis Potos, SLP.- San Luis Potos is the second most dangerous city in the country, according to the National Victimization Survey on Public Safety (Envipe) 2021, carried out by INEGI. 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. Guanajuato is famous for gold and especially silver: in the colonial period the mines of Guanajuato made it one of the wealthiest cities in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is situated almost right in the . Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Long-lost ship found at the bottom of Lake Huron, confirming story of tragic collision, TikTok to set default daily time limit of up to 60 minutes for minors, Jaguars, narcos, illegal loggers: One mans battle to save a Guatemalan jungle and Maya ruins, Before and after photos from space show storms effect on California reservoirs, Before and after photos from space show epic snow blanketing SoCal mountains, The chance of a lifetime: Five friends ski the tallest mountain in Los Angeles, Dr. Simi is a TikTok star. Outside of the city center in the surrounding area, there has been some cartel-related violence. Is Guanajuato Mexico Safe 2021? 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. Guanajuato state does frequently make headlines for being a more violent part of Mexico; but is the city safe for tourists? The province of Guadalajara is also known as Guadalajara. The road, however, felt very safe. . At Apple Vacations, we've collected the best Guanajuato resort deals available online and made them easy for you to compare and book. Our favorites include the colonial-style Edelmira Hotel Boutique, El Mesn de los Poetas, and Hotel San Diego, overlooking central Jardn de la Unin. Crime in Guanajuato usually involves thieves wanting money. Typically there are direct flights to/from several North American cities including Chicago (5 hours), Dallas (2 hours), Houston (two hours), and Los Angeles (three hours), as well as numerous flights to Mexico City (1hr). In recent years, Guanajuato has attracted an increasing number of artists, both expat and local, who specialize in the plastic arts: sculpture, painting, jewelry-making, and the like. But GTO (city) is a college town, and so it seemed like it would be relatively safe for even long term visitors as long as you arent getting into anything questionable. The most common type of crime in Guanajuato is theft, followed by drug-related crimes. A couple of kilometers west of the center lies one of Guanajuatos grandest colonial mansions, built for the wealthy Barrera family in the late 17th century. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. All of Guanajuato is with Seor Mencho!. Water cannot be drank in Mexico. Fill out the form below and click the link or image above to get a free quote. 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. The quick answer: Yes! Is Guanajuato Safe. Less than three weeks after the massacre, El Menchos cartel released a video in which a masked gunman identified as a New Generation special forces chief warns El Marro that his days are numbered. Consider your business and financial affairs separately. 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. The drug-related violence that has blighted some parts of Mexico has largely skipped Guanajuato city itself, and it remains a relatively safe, family-friendly university town. Is Guanajuato safe? Justice? While cartels do operate in the surrounding countryside, they generally don't cause too much of a problem in the city - and if they do, it's nearly always targeted at specific people (usually of . Rosa Alba Santoyo Soria is comforted by a friend. In addition to its location, it is a popular tourist destination in large part due to its numerous attractions. For anything not available in Guanajuato, the city of Len is less than an hour away. Only thing to worry is taxi drivers or cops shaking you down or wrong place wrong time situations with the current turf wars going on in the area. Typically 105 buses run weekly, although weekend and holiday schedules can vary so check in advance. El Marro has not spoken publicly about it. Actually, what people most enjoy is the possibility of exploring the city on foot. Mexicos most celebrated muralist was born in this house in Guanajuato in 1886, now preserved as a fascinating museum. The city was founded on the silver mines that operated in the area from the 16th century until the 18th century. With 2,293 killings in the first half of this year, Guanajuato is on pace to set a new record. For many Mexicans, this museum is the most significant in all Guanajuato thanks to its role in the Mexican War of Independence. But not to be confused. In the city of Guanajuato, there are numerous tourist attractions to choose from, including the Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Solitude, the Basilica of Our Lady of Assumption, the Palace of Governors, and the University of Guadalajara. 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. Visit Merida with care and remember to keep your wits about you; keep an eye on where you are going. You can get a free quote for your insurance by clicking the button below or read more about their coverage in our comprehensive review. After the war, the city rapidly expanded as a textile production hub. Another reason to simply just explore the streets is that when it comes to the cultural explorer, Guanajuato does not disappoint. Zacatecas has generally avoided the drug violence that has affected other parts of Mexico making it a safe destination to visit. But I never found my son.. 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