How safe is Mexico City?

Mexico City is currently a safe destination to visit. It showcases captivating beauty, a diverse culture, delightful cuisine, and an abundance of historical sites.

Mexico City, however, stands as the largest city in North America, boasting a population of over 9 million within its vast 577-square-mile expanse. While exploring, visitors should be aware of safety considerations common to bustling metropolises and take precautions.

Crime rates vary across different areas of the city. For instance, Centro Historico and Roma are considered relatively safe. Additionally, crime levels in Mexico City tend to be lower compared to many other regions in Mexico and some cities in the United States.

Travellers can take steps to reduce the risk of becoming victims of crime:

• Avoid walking alone, especially at night. Women should always avoid walking alone at night.
• Refrain from displaying large amounts of cash.
• Blend in by dressing inconspicuously. For instance, avoid wearing shorts, flip-flops, or carrying expensive cameras.
• Familiarise yourself with basic Spanish phrases.
• Avoid wearing flashy jewellery, or high tech like smart watches that may attract attention.
• Prioritise safety by researching neighbourhoods and steering clear of high-crime areas like Tepito and Iztapalapa.
• Opt for authorised or reputable taxi services.
• Stay vigilant and remain aware of your surroundings at all times.

Tourist-Friendly Safe Neighbourhoods

Polanco – This posh neighbourhood is celebrated for its upscale shopping, dining, and lively nightlife. It’s known to be one of the friendliest and safest areas in Mexico City for tourists.

Reforma – located in the heart of Mexico City, Reforma boasts many of the city’s top tourist attractions, including the Angel of Independence monument and Chapultepec Park. With frequent police patrols, this area ensures safety for tourists.

Condesa – This fashionable district appeals to both young professionals and tourists. It’s renowned for its Art Deco buildings, lively nightlife, and abundance of parks and green areas.

Roma – Roma is another chic neighbourhood, beloved by both tourists and locals. It’s famed for its street art, retro boutiques, and trendy eateries and bars.

Coyoacán – This delightful district is renowned for its colonial-era architecture, art galleries, and laid-back vibe. It’s widely regarded as one of the safest zones in Mexico City for tourists.

Common Scams in Mexico:

As with any destination, Mexico City has its share of typical scams that tourists should be cautious of.

Taxi Scams – Common taxi scams in Mexico City include overcharging or coercing visitors into withdrawing money from ATMs. To steer clear of such scams, travellers should opt for reputable taxis, such as authorised ones found at transportation hubs, Sitio taxis available at official stands, and Radio taxis that respond to traveler calls.

Fake ATM’s – Some ATMs are fake and may steal money from tourists’ cards. To prevent falling victim to this scam, tourists should only withdraw money from banks or airport ATMs and avoid using unmarked ATMs altogether.

Scammers – Occasionally, individuals may approach tourists and strike up a conversation in hopes of soliciting money. Tourists can evade this scam by simply walking away.

Top Actions Tourists Should Avoid:

For safety, tourists should refrain from certain behaviours. These include:

• Displaying valuables openly.
• Drinking excessively in public.
• Using the metro during peak hours.
• Sharing personal details with strangers.
• Walking alone downtown at night.
• Resisting if confronted by a mugger.

Why visit Mexico City?

Travellers will discover many excellent reasons to visit Mexico City.

History – Mexico City, built on the ruins of an Aztec capital, offers insight into this ancient civilization. It’s the oldest city in the Americas and was the capital of New Spain for 300 years. Additionally, it boasts three UNESCO Heritage sites: the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco, Casa Luis Barragán, and the Central University City Campus. Moreover, it’s part of the Camino Real de Tierra Adentro.

Art – Mexico City is abundant with muralist art, showcasing the legacies of renowned artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, who once called the city home. Visitors can catch glimpses of their lives through various attractions.

Food and Fun – Mexico City is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering food tours and cooking classes. Additionally, it boasts a vibrant nightlife, including two of the world’s top bars.

Hiking Opportunities – Mexico City offers opportunities for hikers to climb two volcanoes and explore the scenic Chapultepec Forest, ideal for leisurely walks.

Southern Exposure Tours spend time exploring Mexico City during the Central America Sojourn  and it is also a popular stopover to or from the Mayan Rainforest to Reef. We’re planning a fabulous new Mexico Walking & Food tour for 2025, so keep an eye out for that cultural gem.

Posted 2024