Is Guanajuato Safe for Travel in 2024?

Guanajuato, Mexico
Safety Score
60

Guanajuato is a city and municipal seat of the municipality of Guanajuato in central Mexico and the capital of the state of the same name. It is part of the macroregion of the Bajío. It is in a narrow valley, which makes its streets narrow and winding. Most are alleys that cars cannot pass through, and some are long sets of stairs up the mountainsides. Many of the city’s thoroughfares are partially or fully underground. The historic center has numerous small plazas and colonial-era mansions, churches, and civil constructions built using pink or green sandstone. The city’s historic center and the adjacent mines were proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988.

Warnings & Dangers in Guanajuato

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Guanajuato is not the safest place for travelers, but if you use common sense and take precautions, you can avoid most of the troubles.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport is not well developed. Traffic on the roads can be hectic and unsafe. Pickpockets are common on buses. Use only licensed taxi services.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Like any significant city in Guanajuato, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings, and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

The city is prone to the possibility of earthquakes, but they do not happen often. Study the seismic activity in the region before your trip here.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : LOW

The risk of severe robbery and armed attacks is shallow in Guanajuato. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is minimal.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : LOW

The risk of terrorism is low in this city. Of course, the risk of attacks still exists due to the international position of the town. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women traveling alone can feel relatively safe in Guanajuato. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings. Be especially careful at night if you are alone on the street.

How Safe Is Guanajuato for Tourists?

Guanajuato is an averagely safe city for travel.

The crime index here is average; the main problems are associated with petty robbery and vandalism.

In general, Guanajuato is considered a safe city, the police are always nearby, and the people are very friendly to tourists.

The whole city is safe during the day, and as long as you stay in the city center, walking alone or in small groups at night is also safe.
In general, the city center is generally safe at any time of the day.

In the Panoramica area (a beautiful road on the outskirts of the city in the mountains) in the evening or early morning it can be quite dangerous.

There have been many rapes, attacks and robberies of foreigners in the area, and some of the victims fled with friends.

Groups of men may be normal, but even several women together will not be safe.

It is safe to run around town in the early morning, though, and there are several gyms where you can pay in class.

As elsewhere, keep an eye on your belongings and surroundings.

Do not trust those who ask or offer you help, they may be scammers.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Guanajuato?

The entry requirements are the following – your passport should be valid for the period you are staying in Mexico. Tourists do not need a visa but will have to complete an immigration form either when they arrive or online in advance. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Guanajuato?

The official currency is the Mexican Nuevo Peso. Debit and credit cards are accepted for payment and in ATMs, or you can exchange your money in exchange offices.

How's the Weather like in Guanajuato?

In Guanajuato, the wet season is warm and overcast, and the dry season is comfortable and partly cloudy. The best time of year to visit Guanajuato for warm-weather activities is from late April to mid-June.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Guanajuato?

Guanajuato International Airport, or Del Bahio International Airport, is a civilian airport located in Cilao, 28 kilometers southeast of the city of Leon and 29 kilometers west of Guanajuato, the capital of the Mexican state of Guanajuato.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Guanajuato?

In the very heart of Mexico, the lovely old city of Guanajuato — the capital of the state of the same name — has long been a popular destination for non-Mexicans, whether for vacationing or as permanent residents. Thanks to its valley location, Guanajuato’s streetscape is one of narrow, winding lanes and alleys, often suitable only for pedestrian traffic due to their width and flights of steps (some of these lanes are even located underground).

Is the Water in Guanajuato Safe to Drink?

Tap water is not drinkable in Guanajuato. You should buy bottled water or boil tap water.

Is Uber Safe in Guanajuato?

There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day, and the distance traveled.

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