Mexico : Safety by City
- Acapulco
- Aguascalientes
- Cabo San Lucas
- Cancun
- Chichen Itza
- Chihuahua
- Cozumel
- Cuernavaca
- Culiacan
- Durango
- Guadalajara
- Guanajuato
- Hermosillo
- Ixtapa
- Juarez
- Leon
- Los Cabos
- Manzanillo
- Matamoros
- Merida
- Mexicali
- Mexico City
- Monterrey
- Morelia
- Oaxaca
- Playa del Carmen
- Puebla
- Puerto Vallarta
- Queretaro City
- Reynosa
- Saltillo
- San Luis Potosi
- San Miguel de Allende
- Sayulita
- Tijuana
- Tulum
- Zacatecas
- Zapopan
- Zihuatanejo
Zihuatanejo or Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is the fourth-largest city in the Mexican state of Guerrero. It was anciently known by English mariners as Chequetan or Seguataneo. Politically the city belongs to Zihuatanejo de Azueta in the western part of Guerrero, but both are commonly referred to as Zihuatanejo. This town has been developed as a tourist attraction along with the modern tourist resort of Ixtapa, 5 km away.
Warnings & Dangers in Zihuatanejo
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Zihuatanejo is not the safest place for travelers, but you can avoid most of the troubles if you use common sense and take precautions.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is not well developed. Traffic on the roads can be very busy and unsafe. Pickpockets are common on buses. Use only licensed taxi services.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
Pickpocketing occurs in Zihuatanejo at every turn, so wear an anti-theft backpack, look after your belongings, and don't leave your phones and wallets unattended. In crowded places, keep an eye on your surroundings.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Besides earthquakes and tremors, which can be experienced in Mexico, the hurricane season runs from June to November and can affect both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
There is a risk of armed attacks or kidnapping in Zihuatanejo, and the common goal of robbers is to get your money and valuables. Therefore, if you are attacked, give the robbers what they ask of you to save your life.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Zihuatanejo. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
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 : MEDIUM
Women traveling alone in Zihuatanejo should avoid late-night walks and be very discreet on the city streets. Heightened precautions won't hurt.
How Safe Is Zihuatanejo for Tourists?
Zihuatanejo is considered a reasonably safe city to travel.
The only thing that can spoil your vacation here is scammers and hurricanes.
If a hurricane strikes during your stay in Zihuatanejo, you should be aware that it can cause flooding and landslides, so be prepared to act wisely and heed the advice of the authorities.
It is best to study the weather conditions before your trip here.
In the event of a disaster, strictly follow the recommendations of local authorities.
It is better to be as attentive as possible in crowded places at bazaars, train stations, and on beaches.
Please keep track of your belongings and never leave them unattended.
Be careful with police officers who demand your documents.
It is not uncommon for them to turn out to be swindlers dressed in police uniforms.
Ask them for documents, too, and see how they react.
At the same time, carry documents or a copy of identity documents with you for honest government officials.
Be very careful when withdrawing money from ATMs, as thieves are watching these places and will follow you until they find a situation that is most vulnerable to attack.
There have been cases of people being kidnapped after exchanging money.
In case this happens to you, you should not resist, but give them what they want.
This will help save your life.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Zihuatanejo?
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 Zihuatanejo?
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 Zihuatanejo?
In Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, the wet season is overcast, the dry season is partly cloudy, and it is hot and oppressive year-round. The best time of year to visit Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo for hot-weather activities is from mid-November to mid-May.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Zihuatanejo?
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport is an international airport in the state of Guerrero on Mexico’s Pacific Ocean coast. It receives thousands of tourists all year to visit beaches and resorts. It handles national and international air traffic for the cities of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo.
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 Zihuatanejo?
There are many things to do in Zihuatanejo Bay, such as lounging on the beach, swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, along with exploring the tiny but charming town of the same name.
Is the Water in Zihuatanejo Safe to Drink?
Tap water is not drinkable in Zihuatanejo. You should buy bottled water or boil tap water.
Is Uber Safe in Zihuatanejo?
There is no Uber taxi in Zihuatanejo. You can use any other local taxi services.
