Is Guadalajara, Mexico Safe?
Guadalajara is an exciting city, the bustling capital of the Mexican state of Jalisco. It often finds itself central to global affairs. One year, it might host an international summit of Heads of State; the next, it’s the locale of the Pan-American Games. Then, it’s honored as the “American Capital of Culture.”
The city of Guadalajara is the home of over 1.3 million people. It’s also home to UNESCO World Heritage historic sites (like Hospicio Cabañas—a historic hospital and site of the greatest fresco of lauded muralist José Clemente Orozco), vibrant cultural hubs like Mercado Libertad (or, Mercado San Juan de Dios), and architectural wonders of global renown.
No wonder travelers from all over the world are eager to visit this amazing destination. Yet, people planning international trips often wonder: is Guadalajara actually safe?
In this guide, discover how safe Guadalajara, Mexico actually is for visitors, precautions people can take on a tour, and the best things to try when exploring
Guadalajara for the first time.
How Safe Is Guadalajara?
Guadalajara, Mexico is fairly safe for visitors, particularly those staying in the city’s central neighborhoods. Chapalita, Providencia, Zapopan, and Colonia Americana are all neighborhoods known for their highly-rated public safety. They’re also popular locales for concerts, festivals, cultural centers, restaurants, and cafes.
Violent crime is incredibly rare in these neighborhoods, although visitors are warned to take precautions against pickpockets.
Notably, crime rates in Guadalajara city proper are comparable to the crime rates in U.S. cities with similar population densities. In general, people in Guadalajara are as safe from crime as they are in San Diego, California, or Jacksonville, Florida.
Increased Risk In Outskirts, Rural Neighborhoods
The U.S. State Department advises against traveling to the outskirts and more rural neighborhoods in the Greater Guadalajara Area, due to an increase in gang violence. In particular, both the U.S. and U.K. governments recommend against travel to Cerro del Cuatro and La Estancia in Jalisco.
However, tourists who stick to the popular city centers and take reasonable safety precautions shouldn’t be in danger.
Guadalajara Safety Tips & Travel Strategies
To keep yourself even safer when visiting Guadalajara, Mexico, take a few precautions. Travel with your belongings secured and arranged to deter pickpockets. Only travel on well-lit roads, and stick with your travel group or tour guide.
Those visiting any part of Mexico should take preventative medication to protect themselves from regional conditions. Mitigate the risks of dehydration, heat stroke, and food poisoning by carrying water and dressing appropriately for the weather.
What Is Guadalajara Known For?
Guadalajara is known for its extraordinary cuisine, historic architecture, and its role as the birthplace of both Tequila and Mariachi music. It’s a popular city for concerts, restaurants, and art events.
Local cultural eats like pork-stuffed torta ahogada, birria, and menudo are on plenty of foodie’s bucket lists. Moreover, people from all over the world travel to buy fresh produce and goods in San Juan de Dios, the largest indoor market on the continent.
Among the religiously devoted, the city is also known for Romería of the Virgin of Zapopan every October.
The annual pilgrimage begins at the Catedral Basílica de la Asunción de María Santísima in Guadalajara. From there, people carry the statue of the Virgin of Zapopan, walking until they reach their destination: the Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan. The journey is five miles long, and it often attracts over two million pilgrims. Once they reach the Basilica, there’s a public festival filled with dance, music, and performers.
Environmentalists recognize Guadalajara for its beautiful urban forestry projects. Most notably, the state park Bosque Los Colomos has won the Green Flag Award for excellence in wildlife conservation. Visitors can ride horses, hike, explore the tailored international gardens, and even enjoy a small zoo.
What Is The Best Time to Visit Guadalajara?
The best time to visit Guadalajara is in September, October, November, and December. Temperatures aren’t overwhelmingly hot, and it’s still the dry season so you aren’t likely to get “rained out.” These are also the months of the city’s most popular festivals:
- Mariachi Festival
- Día de la Raza (day of the Romería of the Virgin pilgrimage)
- Fiestas de Octubre
- Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
- Navidad (Christmas) celebrations
- Ilusionante, a magic festival held each winter
That said, budget-conscious travelers may want to catch Guadalajara when rates are reduced. The city is more affordable during the rainy season, from January through May.
Can’t-Miss Guadalajara Travel Experiences: Things To Do When Visiting Guadalajara, Mexico
Guadalajara is a city with extraordinary experiences to offer everyone. Visit historic Cathedrals, explore the greenery of Bosque Los Colomos, enjoy mariachi music or film festivals, and try some iconic cuisine.
No matter what draws you in, there’s something there to love.
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