Avoid These 16 Areas in Mexico for Your Own Safety
Mexico is a country filled with beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and historical treasures. But like any destination, not every part of the country is safe for travelers. Some regions face ongoing issues with crime, violence, and instability, making them dangerous places to visit.
While many areas of Mexico are perfectly safe for tourists, others should be avoided at all costs. Whether it’s due to gang activity, political unrest, or drug-related violence, these 16 parts of Mexico are no-go zones for anyone looking to stay safe during their trip.
Ciudad Juárez – Chihuahua
Ciudad Juárez has long been known for its high levels of violence, particularly related to drug cartels. Tourists face risks of robbery, carjacking, and gang-related violence, making it a city to avoid.
Despite its proximity to the U.S. border, it remains a dangerous area.
Acapulco – Guerrero
Once a glamorous beach destination, Acapulco is now plagued by gang violence. Tourists here have reported incidents of armed robbery, extortion, and even murder.
While the beaches are beautiful, the risks outweigh the rewards.
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Tijuana – Baja California
Tijuana may be famous for its nightlife and proximity to San Diego, but it’s also known for its high crime rate. The city struggles with cartel violence, kidnappings, and human trafficking, making it unsafe for visitors.
It’s best to pass on this border town.
Culiacán – Sinaloa
As the home of the notorious Sinaloa Cartel, Culiacán is no stranger to violence. Cartel activity dominates the region, and tourists are advised to steer clear of this dangerous city.
It’s simply not worth the risk of becoming caught in the crossfire.
Reynosa – Tamaulipas
Located along the U.S. border, Reynosa is a hotspot for drug trafficking and cartel wars. The city sees frequent shootouts and kidnappings, putting tourists at serious risk.
Even locals face dangers daily in this volatile region.
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Iguala – Guerrero
Known for the infamous 2014 disappearance of 43 students, Iguala remains a hub of crime and corruption. Drug cartels control much of the area, making it extremely unsafe for tourists.
It’s a place best left off your travel itinerary.
Matamoros – Tamaulipas
Matamoros is another border town that has become dangerous due to cartel activity. Drug smuggling, kidnapping, and violent clashes between criminal groups are common.
Tourists should avoid this area to ensure their safety.
Uruapan – Michoacán
Uruapan is beautiful but deadly, known for its avocado farms—and cartel violence. The region has seen violent conflicts over control of the lucrative avocado trade, putting tourists at risk.
The stunning landscape doesn’t outweigh the dangers here.
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Celaya – Guanajuato
Once considered a peaceful city, Celaya has seen a surge in violence due to warring cartels. Tourists are advised to stay away, as the risk of being caught in violent incidents has increased dramatically.
It’s no longer the safe destination it used to be.
Chilpancingo – Guerrero
Guerrero state is one of the most dangerous in Mexico, and its capital, Chilpancingo, is no exception. Cartel violence, corruption, and gang wars make this city unsafe for tourists.
Travelers should avoid the area entirely.
Nuevo Laredo – Tamaulipas
Another border town, Nuevo Laredo, is infamous for cartel battles and drug trafficking. Tourists here are vulnerable to robbery, assault, and kidnappings, making it a no-go zone for visitors.
It’s better to avoid this troubled city altogether.
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Zamora – Michoacán
Zamora has seen a rapid increase in crime, largely due to ongoing cartel conflicts. Tourists are at risk of violence and extortion, as criminal groups control much of the area.
Michoacán’s beauty is overshadowed by the dangers here.
Fresnillo – Zacatecas
Fresnillo is known for its high crime rates, with frequent reports of shootings and robberies. Drug-related violence dominates the area, making it unsafe for both locals and tourists.
It’s a city you’ll want to steer clear of.
Mazatlán – Sinaloa
While Mazatlán’s beaches are inviting, the city’s crime rate is anything but. Gang violence, robberies, and assaults are common, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
Though it’s a popular destination, it’s one that comes with serious risks.
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Tepic – Nayarit
Tepic is often overlooked by tourists, and for good reason. The city faces issues with gang violence, kidnappings, and drug trafficking.
It’s not a safe place for visitors, despite its historical charm.
Apatzingán – Michoacán
Apatzingán is notorious for its high levels of cartel activity and violent crime. Kidnappings, extortion, and shootouts are common occurrences, making this area far too dangerous for tourists.
It’s best to avoid this part of Michoacán entirely.
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