Mexico is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Be it its commendable architecture or the tempting food, everything about this country is just epic and unique. While there’s so much to love about Mexico, the alarming number of crimes is what curtails the excitement of most tourists planning to visit here. What makes it more concerning is the fact that Mexico is considered one of the most dangerous countries in the world. Hence, it’s of utmost importance to stay vigilant and altogether avoid visiting some parts of the country. Below is the list of the 9 most dangerous places in Mexico that you should refrain from visiting. 

Most Unsafe Places in Mexico for Travelers

1. Tijuana 

Located around the borders of the US-Mexico, Tijuana is the prime location for drug trafficking and other violence. What’s terrifying is the homicide rate here which rounds off at 138 per 100,000 people. The US State Department suggests Americans to avoid visiting Tijuana. Nonetheless, if you plan to visit, make sure to just stick to the main downtown area and be extremely cautious on all fronts. 

2. Victoria 

Sitting in the northeastern region of Tamaulipas, Victoria is listed as the seventh most dangerous city in the world. Herein, the main cause of violence is usually related to drugs mainly arising between prisons and cartels. Traveling through this state or any state of Tamaulipas is highly discouraged for this matter. Several incidents have been recorded where tourist buses were seized over for robberies and the passengers were held hostage to demand ransom. The homicide rate in Victoria is 86 per 100,000 people. 

3. Celaya 

Lying just an hour away from Irapuato, Celaya has also experienced a rapid rise in crimes over the past few years. Extortion and illegal fuel trade are some of the main reasons behind the widespread crimes in this city. Besides, drug-related crimes are also quite common here with two prominent cartels taking leading heed for these issues.

4. Zamora 

Zamora has often been in the highlights for absurd cases of violence, theft, kidnappings, and assault. What’s most disturbing is the homicide rate which is over 28 times more than the average rate in the US i.e., 193 per 100,000 people. More so, the murder rate is also the highest here among all other cities in Mexico. Hence, foremost avoid visiting this place, and in case you get to stay here, make sure to practice all safety precautions and beware of your surroundings.

5. Acapulco 

Situated in the state of Guerrero, Acapulco was once famous as a tourist’s paradise with beautiful beach resorts and a vibe to dwell in. However, as the number of visitors increased, the crime rates have also seen a rise in numbers. Although the risk is comparatively lower in areas like Taxco and Ixtapa – Zihuatanejo, the US Government has advised travelers to avoid traveling to Gurrero state.

6. Culiacan 

Culican is powered by one of the most powerful troops of drug trafficking in the world – the Sinaloa cartel. Over the years, the crime rates in the city have rapidly escalated with cases of armed robberies and kidnapping becoming common day-to-day instances. More so, you’d most probably be shocked by the homicide rate here which is 61 per 100,000 people which is almost 10 times the average rate in the United States.

7. Uruapan 

Uruapan is a small town saturated in the state of Michoacan, which is also home to the most dangerous city on this list, Zomara. Although the town is very popular for its lovely handcraft items and avocado plantations, it is also in the limelight for its steadily rising crime rates which can’t be overlooked. The events of carjackings, armed robberies and muggings are quite common here, even in apparently safer areas. 

8. Irapuato 

Irapuato, located in the central state of Guanajuato, has seen a drastic rise in crime rates over the past few years. The incidents of violence, homicide, kidnappings, and assaults have frequently been recorded in the town. Concerning these very reasons and the alarming homicide rate of 81 per 100,000 people, the US Government certainly discourages tourists from traveling here.

9. Juarez 

Covering the borders of the United States, Juarez is one of the most unsafe cities in the world. Lying at the intersection of Texas and New Mexico makes it the perfect location for smuggling drugs across the US. And no doubt, this is one of the prime reasons for the increasing crime, homicide, and violence rates here.

Takeaway

So, these were the top 9 places in Mexico that (if possible) should be avoided visiting. And if visiting, just make sure to remain well-informed about your surroundings and follow all the precautions. And this is not just advised concerning the mentioned places, the rule goes for every place you visit as crime is not subjected to any specific location or place. Hence, be mindful and prepared!

Also Read : Top 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Florida 2024

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :

Q. When is the best time to travel to Mexico?

A. The best time to travel to Mexico is during the dry season, i.e., from December to April when there’s less possibility of rain. 

Q. What are the worst cartel cities in Mexico?

A. Guerrero, Sinaloa, Colima, Michoacan, and Tamaulipas are some of the worst cities in Mexico. 

Q. Do I need a visa for Mexico?

A. Yes, you do need a visa to travel to Mexico.

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