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). However, in the last three years, the crime rate has spiked overall in the state of Guanajuato. I took one regular taxi in San Miguel de Allende, but it was called by the concierge at a fancy hotel (there were no Ubers in the area) so I felt okay about it. Even if I am left alone like a dog I will endure, he said. There were 3,540 killings in Guanajuato last year, a more than threefold increase since 2016. Mexico Cancun vs Tulum vs Playa del Carmen, Museo Ex-Hacienda de San Gabriel de Barrera, Museo Regional de Guanajuato (Alhndiga de Granaditas). The province of Guadalajara is also known as Guadalajara. San Miguel de Allende is often noted as one of the safest Mexican cities for tourists which is usually backed up by its low crime rate score. A few hours later, the funicular pulled me to safety while Latin music played in the alleys. Keep dummy wallets for pickpockets and keep your money hidden away. There are a lot of churches and cathedrals that were very ornate and beautiful and worth visiting. 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. Also, the frequent illegal roadblocks happen andif you get information about these kinds of incidents, you are suggested to either postpone your journey or to travel during daylight hours. Visit Merida with care and remember to keep your wits about you; keep an eye on where you are going. Despite this, visitors should always use common sense and be aware of their surroundings. In a word, yes, Guanajuato is safe. It is a dangerous place to visit due to the drug cartels, gang-related violence, and kidnappings. El Menchos mob has blamed El Marro for the massacre. Tourist crime in these areas is mostly a rare pick-pocketing. Visit the Museo Ex-Hacienda de San Gabriel de Barrera and Museo Iconogrfico del Quijote, then take a bus trip out to the Cristo Rey. It was here in 1810 that Miguel Hidalgo aided by local hero El Ppila vanquished the pro-Spanish garrison. A. Is Guanajuato Safe? Tunnels, underground streets, and the viewpoint of the Rayas mine are some of the highlights of this visit. We were staying in Leon and took a day trip to Guanajuato. Nonetheless, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and use common sense. There are a few safe places to visit in Mexico, but not in Guadalajara. Patio de Piedra. You can stay updated on travel warnings and safety information at this U.S. Department of State website. 4. Note that we took Uber the whole trip and this was the only weird thing, but of course, always be alert. Make sure your travel insurance is up to date and ready to go in case of an emergency. Authorities say the pressure on the illicit fuel trade has forced El Marro to branch out into other rackets, including extortion and local drug sales. The war of independence itself was launched from Dolores Hidalgo, a small town less than 23 miles from Guanajuato. For these reasons, Guanajuato is a major tourist destination for Mexicans. Guanajuato Spanish Schools Safety. The intentional homicide rate of Guanajuato was the highest in Mexico in 2019, with a total of 4,494 deaths. Do not accept drinks from strangers as they might be spiked. My coworkers family just got back from Irapuato and she said drug cartels are everywhere. 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. 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. The city of Guanajuato is generally safe, and I feel it is a lot safer than downtown NYC. In addition, various other museums and performance spaces in the city provide cultural activities throughout the year. Compared with other cities in Mexico, San Miguel de Allende is safe to walk around during both the day and night. For anything not available in Guanajuato, the city of Len is less than an hour away. Mexican authorities say they have detained Jos Antonio Ypez Ortiz, alias El Marro, the alleged leader of the Santa Rosa de Lima cartel. In 99% of cases, it does not involve tourists or visitors, but it can still happen. Rain is heaviest July to August, though temperatures rarely rise above 30C (84F) in summer. US State Department travel advisories apply to the southern parts of Guanajuato State only, where cartels do operate. There are some parts of the country where illegal roadblocks have also been reported. Couples who kiss while standing on the third step of the alley are supposedly guaranteed seven years of happiness together. At the time, my wife, my son, and I were traversing Mexico with a list of 18 cities to investigate as potential . The government is just trying to protect both tourists and residents of possible criminal acts. 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.". Also, side note, please pay your Uber drivers toll fees. Back then the building was used a grain warehouse and part-time prison. Is Guanajuato safe? There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no exception. With 2,293 killings in the first half of this year, Guanajuato is on pace to set a new record. We asked them about the political statements, and they just kind of shrugged, like, yeah, we have some issues. One thing you can do is to never carry all your money in a wallet. The museum holds a macabre collection of mummified human corpses, displayed in glass cases. Santoyo said she had no idea why the center was targeted, and evinced no hope that her sons killers would be found in a country where most homicides go unsolved. It's a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with plenty of space to lounge about in the vibrant common areas. How safe is driving in Mexico? Subscribe to the Magazine Today and Save 65%, IL Magazine: Discover the World's Best Retirement Haven for 2023 + 15 more, about subscribing to International Living Magazine, Medicare Benefits for U.S. Citizens Living Abroad, One Million Americans in Mexico Cant All Be Wrong. 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. Keep your distance at night, and if you are unsure if you are in an unsafe situation, call for help. Rosa Alba Santoyo Soria is comforted by a friend. And in recent years there has been a tendency for an increase in the number of crimes. Ingles. TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : HIGH We were there in July 2021. Curious to hear if there has been incident involving tourists (except in the case when they were looking for drugs). If you want to take expensive equipment such as cameras or smartphones, keep them hidden, locked away and on your person. Youll get a $10 discount if you use the code BROKEBACKPACKER. "If I spoke Spanish as well as you," suggested a retired American woman in Ajijic, Mexico, "I'd go live in Guanajuato. There are plenty of police officers and security guards stationed throughout the city, so you can feel safe walking around during the day or at night. 2023 Tour By Mexico. Estimates put its numbers at 300 to 500 for permanent, year-round expats. Guanajuatos most romantic sight is the Callejn del Beso (Alley of the Kiss), so-named because its supposedly narrow enough (just 69cm/27 inches at one point) for residents to lean out of their windows and kiss each other. Visit Diego Rivera Museum 4. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Why justice? asks Santoyo, mother of seven, only two of whom remain alive two others died in accidents, she said. Along with the adjacent Mercado de Gavira, its also a tasty, cheap place to eat, with everything from tacos and tortas to locally celebrated enchiladas mineras and birria (goat or mutton stew) on offer. The quick answer: Yes! 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. That has only exacerbated the violence. Traveling to any city requires common sense, and it is critical to stay up to date on your surroundings at all times. Its dedicated to San Diego de Alcntara, aka Didacus of Alcal, a 15th-century Spanish missionary to the Canary Islands. It felt a little scary that we needed all that, but we also felt really safe in the house because of that. In particular, the neighborhoods of La Union and El Colonia are known for crime and should be avoided after dark. According to reports, Merida is also the safest place in Mexico to live and travel. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Before the virus, the US government listed the state of Guanajuato as being the same level of risk for tourism as. The dead include Santoyos three sons and the center director. The famous Veta Madre (Mother Lode) is the richest man in the world. Set the price before getting in (around 60 pesos to the center). El Marro has no chance, said Vigil, the ex-DEA official. Report inappropriate content 06Mexico_Lover San Jose, CA Level Contributor 3 posts 19 reviews 14 helpful votes 2. Summary about cost of living in Queretaro, Mexico: Family of four estimated monthly costs are 1,611$ (33,422MXN) without rent. 2 Guanajuato has been a relatively safe city and crime generally is moderate. 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. Aside from saving money and the environment, you can also save energy. Humidity is generally low. Guanajuatos historic indoor market was built in 1910 and is still packed with all sorts of stalls, from fresh fruit to local crafts and cheap garments. Sign in to access your subscriptions and subscriber-only content. We took a flight from Tijuana and landed in Leon, and took an Uber from the airport. It is caused by a variety of factors, including high crime and kidnapping rates. Guanajuatos expat community is international. Very safe, be it on your own or in a tour. Guanajuato is a city with plenty of plazas and squares. The Expat Guide to Living in Mexico is an online magazine designed for both current and aspiring expats. The ex-director, Erasmo Flores, referred his clients as my children, according to several families, who paid the equivalent of about $20 a week to enroll loved ones in a course that included group discussions and singing. Guanajuato is best explored on foot so staying in the historic center of the city makes the most sense and is far more atmospheric than lodging in the outskirts. It became one of the worlds largest silver mining centers during the 16th century. Completed in 1796, the most sacred object inside is the central wooden statue of the Virgin, a 16th-century gift to the city from the Spanish monarchs. A single person estimated monthly costs are 452$ (9,374MXN) without rent. For the tourist it is fine. Many of the outfits are seedlings of organized crime, Guanajuatos security chief, Alvar Cabeza de Vaca, told reporters in June, after 10 people were killed in an attack on a different center in Irapuato. As a result of this process, police officers become more effective, and crimes are less likely to occur. 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. Female solo travelers are not likely to find Mexico to be a suitable destination. Several officers said under duress that town officials and law enforcement took orders from El Marro. Guanajuato city is just fine. Typically 105 buses run weekly, although weekend and holiday schedules can vary so check in advance. However, one evening Anas father caught them and was so angry he murdered his daughter on the spot Carlos was left grasping her dead hand. 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. The United States Embassy has issued a travel alert for the state of Guanajuato in the wake of a wave of attacks perpetrated by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Its central location makes Guanajuato a great jumping-off point for trips to the historic silver towns of Mexico, from San Miguel de Allende to Quertaro. More than two dozen blood-spattered men lay face-down, some with heads split open, others groaning in agony. Europe and others push for a standard lunar time zone, Bola Tinubu, the declared winner of Nigerias presidential election, appeals for unity, A 5,000-year-old restaurant highlights Iraqs archaeological renaissance, Fiery Greece train collision kills 32, injures at least 85. Amazing things to do in Guanajuato Mexico 1. Youll have an unforgettable trip if you make the right decisions when you arrive at your destination. Any precaution for visiting the city of Guanajuato and travel to CDMX by bus? US State Department travel warnings generally apply to the western part of the state of Zacatecas (south of Highway 45 and west of Highway 23) and not the city itself. Mexico is a country with a high rate of violent crime, including murder, armed robbery, sexual assault, and kidnapping. Rosa Alba Santoya Soria in her home in Irapuato. Tours last around 1 hour 30 minutes, and include a ceramic porrn (traditional drinking vessel) filled with orange or apple juice (booze is discouraged nowadays). It is expected that the people will be pleasant and welcoming. The state is the sixth-highest populated in the Mexican nation and is famous for, among other things, blue corn tortillas. Is Guanajuato safe? The cartel in effect controls several Pacific ports that are entry points from Asia of essential chemicals. The Torture Museum, despite being one of the three worst museums, had the best reputation. Lined by cafs and bars such as popular Luna, its the perfect spot for an early evening drink local bands and musicians often play outdoors here at dusk. Guanajuato has several good hospitals in the area, as well as surrounding areas, that provide excellent and modern care. Yes it is pretty safe. Got tips, tricks & advice we can learn from? As many as 10,000 are studentsthe University of Guanajuato is here, with many university divisions housed right in the city center. Guanajuato has been a relatively safe cityand crime generally is moderate. We were close to the Plaza Mexiamora, which was very cute and nice to walk by each night. We walked to most places, but when it became too much (a couple of restaurants/museums were maybe a mile away), we took Uber. These popular U.S. cities include Miami, Philadelphia, Chicago, New Orleans, Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, and visitors are relatively safe. There are numerous regions and cities that are more enjoyable to visit than dangerous to travel to. Actually, what people most enjoy is the possibility of exploring the city on foot. With international travel on the rise as a result of rising COVID-19 vaccination rates, Mexico's centrally situated state of Guanajuato continues to welcome visitors from the U.S. while implementing various sanitation protocols and measures to protect the safety of its citizens and tourists.. Geographically located in the heart of Mexico, the state of Guanajuato is famous for its cultural . Oaxaca, with its numerous historical periods, is one of the places that can be seen throughout Mexico. Mexico can be dangerous for LGBTQ+ people, depending on where they live. We came for you, filthy Marro! a voice declared. Anyways, she was very nice and drove us into the city. Make sure to use trusted and accredited hotels/hostels. Is it safe to travel? Millions visit Guanajuato each year, drawn to the urban beauty which has earned it the tag of the most beautiful city in Mexico. The states silver mines, which are among the worlds richest, have helped the economy grow over the years. Report inappropriate content 06Mexico_Lover San Jose, CA Level Contributor 3 posts 19 reviews 14 helpful votes 2. 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 city is also a popular tourist destination, with its well-preserved architecture, vibrant markets, and lively festivals. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Find out where the dangerous spots in Guanajuato are so you can avoid them at all costs. Even more fun! Nonetheless, keep in mind that you will be less likely to be targeted if you are not directly involved in the violence. You can get a free quote for your insurance by clicking the button below or read more about their coverage in our comprehensive review. Zacatecas has generally avoided the drug violence that has affected other parts of Mexico making it a safe destination to visit. The former home of Mexican muralist Jos Chvez Morado and his German painter wife Olga Costa is now a beautifully maintained museum filled with art objects collected by the couple (there are only a few items by the artists themselves). 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. 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. Guanajuato offers a relaxed pace of life with many cultural amenities. The city also increasingly attracts part-time expats, especially during high season. While Guanajuato is a small safe tourist city, following basic safety rule is a key. Mexico has sent marines to Cancun beaches, not only for Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Is Guanajuato safe? Entrate de las noticias locales, regionales, nacionales e internacionales ms relevantes | el sol del bajo 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. Its well worth touring the old Guanajuato state legislature building the Palacio Legislativo now converted into the Museum of the Powers. Simply enter your email address below and well send you a free special report Mexico: The Perfect Close-to-Home Retirement Haven. Mexico Guanajuato Pretty much everywhere we went, we were the only people who looked non-Mexican, so we got quite a few stares, but nothing that made us feel unsafe. Every street . In December 2019, New Generation launched an armed assault with automatic weapons against police headquarters in Villagrn, the municipality that includes El Marros hometown. 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