Is Baja California safe? (2024)

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Is Baja California safe?

If you are planning a trip to Baja California, most likely, it’s the main question you have.

Baja California is a peninsula that extends southward from the U.S.-Mexico border and is comprised of 2 states, Baja California (also known as Baja California Norte) and Baja California Sur. 

Baja is a popular destination for camping and RV’ing with many traveleres from the United States and Canada coming here year round.

When you explore Baja California, you will understand why so many people bring their motor homes here – you can spend weeks enjoying the spectacular landscapes and exploring outdoor opportunities from surfing and diving to hiking and mountain biking. 

Your safety in Baja California depends on your location. Tijuana consistently gets ranked as one of the most violent cities in the word. Parts of Baja California along the U.S. border are also considered dangerous due to cartel violence, while Loreto, Mulege, San Ignacio and Bahia De Los Angeles are some of the safest places to visit in Mexico . 

While Baja California is statistically safer than many other places in Mexico, there are certain things you need to know about this region to enjoy a fun and safe trip. 

In this article, we will look at different aspects of Baja California travel, and I will go over safety in Baja California.

Let’s get to it!

Is Baja California safe?

Baja California is one of the safest places in Mexico and is a popular destination for road trips. However, traveling in Baja comes with some safety risks due to its remote location and long distances between towns and cities. 

What is crime like in Baja California?

Most of the crime in Baja California is related to drug trafficking and is concentrated along the U.S.-Mexico border where cartels battle for the control of the drug trafficking routes to the United States.

As a tourist, you are not likely to become a target to violent crime, unless you get involved with drugs and other illegal activities. If you are visiting popular areas of Baja California, you are more likely to be affected by street crime like petty theft, pickpocketing, or purse snatching.

Tourist scams are also not uncommon in popular destinations in Baja California like Cabo San Lucas, and you should always be cautions when exchanging money, paying for services or getting a taxi.

 ✅ Read: Is Rosarito safe?

Is Baja Mexico safe for tourists?

While Baja is generally safe for tourists, cities along the U.S.-Mexico border see the most violence. Exercise increased caution in Tijuana and Mexicali, and avoid driving at night in areas near the border.

What does the U.S. State Department about safety in Baja? 

The U.S. State Department has four different classifications for all Mexico’s 32 states that range from “do not travel to” to “exercise normal precautions.” It has separate classifications for Baja California and Baja California Sur. 

Crime in Baja California Norte 

The U.S. State Department advises visitors to reconsider travel to Baja California due to crime and kidnapping. Unfortunately, many areas along the U.S.-Mexico border, including Tijuana, are affected by cartel violence, which contributes to the overall crime statistic in the state.

Criminal groups compete to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes with violent crime and gang activity common, according to the agency, which advises to remain on paid highways (cuotas) and avoid remote areas. 

Baja California has a high homicide rate of 70.4 incidents per 100,000 people, which makes it one of the most dangerous states in Mexico. 

The state logged 2,650 murders from June 2022 to May 2023, the third highest in Mexico after Colima and Morelos. 

Crime in Baja California Sur 

The U.S. State Department recommends to exercise increased caution in Baja California Sur due to crime.

Baja California Sur sees far lower crime than Baja California Norte. It has one of the lowest homicide rates in Mexico, at 5.2 incidents per 100,000 people, which is lower than many U.S. states. 

When traveling in Baja Sur, you need to watch out for petty theft, tourist scams and be careful when driving on highways, as they can be narrow and winding in certain places.

Safety tips for Baja California

📍Swim only where it’s safe

Some beaches along the Pacific Coast of Baja California are not safe for swimming due to dangerous rip currents and undertows. Always check conditions before getting in the water.

Baja beaches along the Sea of Cortez are generally safer for swimming, as they have calm waters and no strong currents, compared to the Pacific Coast.

ALWAYS check whether it’s safe to swim or surf in a specific area or ask a lifeguard on duty, if there’s one.

📍Camp only in designated areas

Many travelers come to Baja because of camping. As you travel around Baja, you will find plenty of available space for camping in the desert and along the coast.

Camp only in designated areas or public campgrounds that provide amenities and better security.

Popular destinations in Baja California have many private campgorunds that offer hook-ups, wi-fi and on-site facilities like bathrooms and kitchens.

📍Stay away from the beach at night

Unless you are staying on one of the popular beaches with other tourists near hotels and resorts, staying on the beach after dark is not a good idea, especially if it’s a remote area.

📍Bring paper maps (or download offline maps on your phone)

Cell phone service can be spotty or might disappear entirely in parts of Baja California, even on major highways. Download offline maps or have paper maps ready ahead of your trip. 

📍Stay away from dark places

Make sure to stay away from dark, isolated places where crime is more likely to happen.

📍Don’t accept food or drinks from people you don’t know

While not everyone who offers you free food or drinks has bad intentions, there have been cases where these drinks were laced with drugs. You can always decline politely and say that you are not hungry or thirsty.

📍Don’t reveal your travel plans to strangers

For safety reasons, it’s best not to give your itineraries and travel plans to someone you just met on the road. You can be polite and have a great conversation, but keep your travel plans to yourself.

📍Leave your designer clothes at home

Dress in casual comfortable clothing like shorts and T-shirts that could help you to blend in with the crowd. The dress code in Baja is generally relaxed, and expensive clothes will make you look out of place. 

📍Learn Spanish

Learning Spanish could be a game changer for your trip to Baja, as you will be able to talk to locals and ask them if you have any questions about directions, or places to visit.

Although you should be fine without Spanish in places like Cabo, once you start driving around and visiting more remote areas, you will find fewer people who speak English.

Platforms like Babbel and Duolingo are perfect for picking up some Spanish ahead of your trip. Download the app on your phone, and learn on the go!

📍Get a travel insurance

While you can lower your risk by following safety tips, you should also get a comprehensive travel insurance that will protect you in case of accidents, injuries and lost or stolen belongings.

I recommend (and use) SafetyWing, a popular travel insurance that offers plans for long and short-term travel. Whether you are taking a quick trip to Baja, or want to spend a couple of weeks (or months) on the road, their insurance has good coverage for various types of trips.

 ✅ GET A TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR YOUR TRIP TO MEXICO

Register for the STEP program 

If you are a U.S. citizen, consider enrolling in STEP, The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, a free service that allows U.S. citizens abroad to register their trip with the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Here are some of the benefits of enrolling in the STEP program ahead of your trip:

• Get updates from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination.
• Stay in contact with the U.S. Embassy in case of an emergency whether it’s a natural disaster, political unrest, or anything else.
• Help family and friends get in touch with you in an emergency.

Driving in Baja California

Driving in Baja California is an experience in itself. You get to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Mexico ranging from beaches to mountains and deserts. 

Is Baja California safe for driving?

Although Baja California is safe for driving, you should limit your driving to day time, watch out for potholes and exercise increased caution on narrow roads. Many roads in Baja have only 2 lanes and have many steep curves, which makes driving more challenging.

Tips for driving in Baja California 

✅ Drive during the day

It’s best to limit your driving to day time. Many roads around Baja have little to no lighting, so you will be driving in the dark. This could make for a dangerous trip, especially if you drive on narrow winding roads.

✅ Watch out for potholes

It’s not uncommon to come across potholes and bumps on Baja roads, so you should always drive with caution. 

✅ Watch out for livestock

When driving around Baja, watch out for cows, donkeys and other animals that often roam near the roads. Unfortunately, these animals are often left on their own, and they end up wondering around roads, which creates hazardous conditions for drivers.

✅ Stay on main highways (cuotas)

For safety reasons, it’s best to stay on main highways as they are better maintained and have more police presence. Secondary roads in Baja can have poor conditions, few amenities and poor cell phone signal. 

✅ Keep your tank full

You should always keep your tank full when driving in Baja. It’s not uncommon to drive long distances in Baja without seeing a gas station, so you should always fill up your car before getting on the road. 

✅ Be ready for military check points

When driving in Baja, you will pass through several military check points where you might get some questions about your travel plans. In some cases, military personally who works at these check points might ask you to open your car for a quick inspection.

Always remain calm, answer questions and be ready to show your documents including driver’s license, vehicle insurance and registration. 

✅ Always have cash on you

When traveling around Baja, you should always have cash on you because many restaurants, vendors who cell food on the side of the road and even some gas stations in Baja might not accept cash. 

✅ Rent a 4X4

Baja has many scenic areas that are accessibly only by a four-wheel drive. Speaking from personal experience, I don’t recommend driving a standard car on rough roads, because you can puncture your tire or even damage your vehicle.

If you don’t have a 4X4 car , you can rent one from DiscoverCars , my go-to company for finding rental cars in Baja California and other parts of Mexico.

DiscoverCars  have flexible rates, and you can also buy a Mexican car insurance from them, which is mandatory for driving in the country.

✅ RENT A CAR FOR YOUR BAJA ROAD TRIP

What documents do I need for driving in Baja California?

If you plan to drive to Baja California from the United States, you will need a valid passport, a car registration, and a driver’s license. All travelers entering Mexico by car must purchase a Mexican car insurance before entering Mexico. 

Where to buy Mexican car insurance 

Several companies offer Mexican car insurance including Baja Bound Mexican Insurance, which offers the most comprehensive insurance for driving in Mexico. 

I recommend Baja Bound, a popular car insurance company among Mexico travelers that’s used by many visitors from the United States and Canada.

You can get a free quote from them online. 

Can I buy Mexican auto insurance at the border?

No, you can’t buy a Mexican car insurance at the border. To enter the country, you need to have the proof of Mexico car insurance. 

FMM Immigration Form

If you plan on driving south of Ensenada on the Pacific side or south of San Felipe along the Sea of Cortez, you will also need a FMM Immigration form (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM).

✅ Fill out the tourist card application online 

Safety in Baja California

What are the safest areas of Baja California?

The safest areas of Baja California are San Felipe, Loreto and Mulege. These places are perfect for spending a couple of days if you want to visit some of the best beaches in Baja California and enjoy outdoor activities like scuba diving, snorkeling or hiking. 

What areas to avoid in Baja California? 

Northern parts of Baja California have a high crime rate. When traveling to places like Tijuana or Mexicali, always exercise caution and limit your driving to daytime, especially if you are traveling near the border. 

Safety in Tijuana 

While popular areas of Tijuana are mostly safe to visit, you should stay away from non-tourist parts and the outskirts that have higher crime and gang activity.

Is Tijuana safe to visit?

Tijuana is one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico because of the high homicide rate tied to cartel violence. Always exercise caution, stick to popular areas and avoid being out at night. 

Tijuana doesn’t have the most stellar image in the eyes of an average American tourist going to Mexico, but it makes for a good stop on your Baja California itinerary if you need to spend the night, enjoy delicious tacos and stretch your legs before getting back on the road.

Crime in Tijuana

According to World Population Review, Tijuana is the most violent cty the world as of 2024, with 38 homicides per 100,000 people. This is a sad statistic, which is mainly caused by the increasing presence of drug cartels who fight over control of the territory as they are looking to sell synthetic drugs.

Note that cartels in Tijuana, as in the rest of Mexico don’t target tourists directly, with locals being main targets of crime, especially if they are linked to criminal groups.

✅ Check: Is Tecate safe?

Safety in Cabo 

Is Cabo San Lucas safe to visit?

Cabo San Lucas is the most popular destination in Baja California, and while the city is considered safe, the Cabo municipality which is home to Cabo San Lucas and nearby San Jose Del Cabo (home to the Cabo airport) has seen an increase in cartel violence. 

If you stay away from drugs you should be fine, but that doesn’t mean that you can just put your guard down. Petty crimes like theft and pickpocketing can still occur, especially around busy areas where criminals often operate. 

✅ Check: Adventurous things to do in Cabo San Lucas

Are there drug cartels in Cabo?

Thanks to the continuous demand for drugs from tourists, the Cabo municipality has seen an increase in crime tied directly to the activity of cartels in the area. Drug cartels are the main reason for crime in Cabo and surrounding areas.

The majority of violence doesn’t occur in parts of Cabo frequented by tourists, as cartels don’t want to scare them away. Tourists in Cabo are not targets of cartel violence, but you can be affected if you happen to be at the wrong place.

If you are staying in one of Cabo resorts or the area frequented by other travelers, and aren’t getting involved with drugs and shady people, you are not likely to be directly affected. 

If you don’t want to contribute to this statistic, simply stay away from buying any illegal substances when visiting Cabo. 

What is the murder rate like in Cabo? 

The murder rate in Cabo is shockingly high, but it has mostly to do with the Cabo municipality, and not Cabo San Lucas. The Cabo municipality includes both Cabo San Lucas and San Jose Del Cabo as well as surrounding areas that see the most crime.

Cabo gets tied into the statistic because it is the largest city in the municipality, and if you are staying in Cabo San Lucas, you are generally safe.

So, is Baja California dangerous? 

Despite what you might hear on the news, Baja California is not a dangerous place. While areas like Tijuana and border towns Tecate and Mexicali have more crime due to cartel presence, you are unlikely to be affected unless you get involved in some shady activity. 

Cabo San Lucas has also seen an increase in cartel presence, mostly due to drug sales that are geared toward tourists arriving in the area. 

Outside of bigger cities, Baja California is mostly a safe destination where you can spend weeks exploring the region. Always be prudent and exercise caution, and you will have the best time enjoying popular activities in Baja California like hiking, surfing, whale watching, snorkeling and diving.

What are the best Mexico travel insurance companies? 

Baja Bound is the most popular Mexico travel insurance company that offers good coverage and competitive rates. Whether you are planning a quick getaway to Cabo San Lucas or want to stay on a road for a while to explore some of the best things to do in Baja, it’s important to protect yourself.

Since you will be spending some time on the road, you never know what could go wrong. Good travel insurance is your best friend when you are traveling to Baja California that could protect you and your money. 

Safety Wing – a great general insurance if you are traveling Baja California for a couple of weeks, which covers you long-term. 

Safety Wing is perfect for long-term travelers who plan to travel in Baja. I’ve used Safety Wing insurance several times and always had a great experience with them.

Baja California safety: FAQ’s 

Is Baja California safe for solo travelers?

Baja California is safe for solo travelers, but you should use common sense and be aware of your surroundings when traveling by yourself. Stay in the areas frequented by other travelers, avoid walking by yourself in the dark, and drive only during the day. 

Guided tours and group activities in places like Cabo and La Paz are perfect for meeting fellow travelers and staying safe while exploring Baja on your own. 

Is Baja California dangerous to live?

Baja Sur is a relatively safe place to live, and it attracts many American and Canadian expats who come here for warmer climate and cheaper cost of living.

Is it safe to camp in Baja Mexico?

Camping in Baja California is safe, but it’s best to stay in designated campgrounds, as disperesed campgrounds in the desert offer less comfort and security.

Can you swim in Baja California?

Not all areas in Baja California are safe for swimming and surfing. Many beaches along the Pacific Coast of Baja have dangerous rip currents which could quickly sweep you into the ocean. Always check the conditions before getting in the water. 

Is Baja California Sur safe?

Baja California Sur is known as one of the safest places in Mexico. There have been no major problems, attributed to the drug war, in any area of Baja Sur.

What is the best time to visit Baja California? 

You can visit Baja California year-round thanks to its warm sunny climate. Still, there are a couple of seasons that you should be aware of before planning your trip to Baja 

December through April is the busiest time in the region when many travelers from the United States and Canada come to Cabo. This time also sees increased domestic tourism from other parts of Mexico, as many areas on the mainland like Mexico City have colder weather during this time.

June through September is the low season in Cabo, and although the weather is nice, it’s not uncommon to see some rain. August and September see the most rain. May and October through November are the shoulder seasons when you can get great deals on tours and hotels in Cabo. 

Is Baja California worth visiting?

Baja California is home to some of the best beaches in Mexico, great diving, snorkeling, and incredible landscapes ranging from mountains, to deserts and rugged coastal areas. Baja California is one of the most scenic parts of Mexico that’s worth your time and effort.

What is the best way to travel to Baja California?

The best way to travel around Baja California is by renting a car! You can rent a car in one of the major airports like Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, or Tijuana. Baja California is a big region, and it demands some time and effort to explore. I recommend DiscoverCars to look for a good vehicle for your trip.

How much time do I need for Baja California?

If you are starting your road trip north and driving south, you will need no less than 14 days to enjoy some of the best things to do in Baja like diving, visiting Valley De Guadalupe, exploring the many beaches of Mulege, and learning the history of the region in Loreto before arriving in Cabo San Lucas. 

Is Baja California dangerous: final thoughts 

Is Baja California dangerous? The answer to this question depends on several factors, 

But here’s the deal: 

Baja California is a popular destination for millions of Americans and tourists from other countries. When traveling around Baja California, you will see many cars with license plates from many American states, which will make you think that this is a safe area.

Baja California Sur is considered generally safer than Baja California, largely because of the cartel presence around border cities like Tijuana, Mexicali, and Tecate. Still, as a whole, the Baja California Peninsula is mostly safe for traveling, with many small towns like San Felipe, Loreto, and Mulege ranking as some of the safest in the region.

Much of the crime and violence that occurs in Baja California is related to cartel activity. Still, your safety is not a guarantee whether you are on a busy street in Cabo surrounded by other tourists or in a sleepy beach town with a low crime rate.

Remember that your safety is on you. Always exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and don’t give away all your travel plans to random people that you meet on the road. 

Most importantly, always trust your gut. If something doesn’t look right, it probably isn’t.

Finally, stay away from drugs, your chances of staying safe while traveling in Baja will be much higher.  There’s a reason why millions of tourists flock to this part of Mexico every year, and if you use common sense, you too will have a great time here!