Mexico : Safety by City
- Acapulco
- Aguascalientes
- Cabo San Lucas
- Cancun
- Chichen Itza
- Chihuahua
- Cozumel
- Cuernavaca
- Culiacan
- Durango
- Ensenada
- Guadalajara
- Guanajuato
- Hermosillo
- Huatulco
- Isla Holbox
- Isla Mujeres
- Ixtapa
- Juarez
- Leon
- Los Cabos
- Manzanillo
- Matamoros
- Merida
- Mexicali
- Mexico City
- Monterrey
- Morelia
- Nogales
- Nuevo Laredo
- Oaxaca
- Piedras Negras
- Playa del Carmen
- Puebla
- Puerto Morelos
- Puerto Vallarta
- Queretaro City
- Reynosa
- Saltillo
- San Luis Potosi
- San Miguel de Allende
- Sayulita
- Tijuana
- Tulum
- Valladolid
- Veracruz
- Zacatecas
- Zamora
- Zapopan
- Zihuatanejo
Guadalajara is the capital of the state of Jalisco in Mexico, and it’s a beautiful city with some amazing sights.
From the classical architecture to the view of the surrounding mountains, the city has long attracted tourists and digital nomads.
The city has two universities and a few military schools, and just to the south is Lake Chapala, which is home to an extensive U.S. retiree community.
However, the state of Jalisco was upgraded to a Level 3 advisory by the U.S. State Department, meaning people should rethink traveling to the state.
In fact, U.S. government employees are restricted from traveling in much of Jalisco, save for a few metro areas that include Guadalajara.
The reasons for the advisory are the increased risks of danger from cartel terrorism, kidnappings, and more, and those risks really do exist.
What does that mean for tourists?
While those risks exist, metro Guadalajara’s tourist zones are not the wild west.
It is possible to visit, and many go there each year.
But anyone planning to travel there needs to pay close attention to safety advice and stay alert.
Warnings & Dangers in Guadalajara
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
You can't do much about some risks, like earthquakes. But other dangers are more preventable. Take Ubers and don't walk alone, keep a very strong grip on your phone when you have it out, stay in tourist zones and don't wander off, and other pieces of advice can help you avoid many of the risks that travelers face.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Overcharging in taxis and pickpockets elsewhere are issues. You can solve the overcharging problem by taking Uber whenever possible, and with pickpockets, you'll have to remain very aware of your surroundings. Even if you're waiting for an Uber in the lobby of your hotel, keep an eye on your belongings and secure your valuables.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
Pickpockets are unfortunately very common, and distraction scams -- someone spills something on you or otherwise gets your attention so quickly that you become less aware of your surroundings -- are a huge risk that you'll have to deal with. Mexicans are overall friendly, helpful, and as tired of theft as you are, and this is in no way meant to paint all of Guadalajara as a super-dangerous city. But unfortunately, pickpocketing is an issue in the city. Remember that these types of crime occur mainly because the thief sees an opportunity, so your job is to minimize any aura of opportunity around you. Do that, and the chances that you can enjoy your trip without trouble increase.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Guadalajara is prone to quakes, and it's not unusual for the area to have quakes with magnitudes in the lower to mid 4s. However, the region can get disastrously large quakes occasionally. For example, in 1932, an 8.1 quake hit near the coast of Jalisco, followed a couple of weeks later by a 7.8 quake to the southwest of the first one. A 6.3 hit in 1905. Another 7.8 hit about 100 miles south of Guadalajara in 2003. Because many of the buildings in the city are older, smaller quakes, as well as stronger quakes that are farther away, have a greater chance of causing substantial damage. Flash flooding is also a risk from heavy rains. Hurricanes and tropical storms aren't as big a risk overall, but if rain bands cross over the city and dump a lot of rain, you'll have to watch out for flooding.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
Your bigger risks are going to be from scams and pickpockets, but mugging can occur, particularly phone snatching. People will ride past you on bikes or motorcycles and grab your phone literally out of your hand. Whatever grip you think you have on your phone, make it stronger. Don't walk around at night, take Uber if you can, and try to travel in groups. Don't fear Guadalajara, but take appropriate precautions given the higher risk of problems.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
A lot of the trouble that tourists get into involves, as the saying goes, "being in the wrong place at the wrong time." The state of Jalisco faces a higher risk of cartel-based terrorism, so anyone traveling there has to keep that risk in mind. U.S. citizens and tourists can end up kidnapped, and the State Department warns that cartel violence has occasionally made its way into tourist zones, too. Tourist areas tend to be less at risk, but problems can still happen even there. You'll hear again and again to stick to tourist areas because they're generally less risky in terms of terrorism.
SCAMS RISK: HIGH
Tourist scams abound, particularly those like taxi overcharging, petty theft, bar touts disguised as alluring new "friends" who insist on going to a particular bar, ATM theft, and so on. Use ATMs inside banks, and basically, trust no one. Take Uber instead of taxis so there's no dispute over the price; if you do have to take a taxi, take one that's regulated and ensure the driver turns on the meter before you set out. Remember that phone-snatching scam, too. Also, look out for distraction scams that allow pickpockets to go to work, and don't take part in street games or let people take your picture. All of those are often scams meant to force you to pay for something you didn't ask for.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Travelers are advised to stay in tourist/commercial areas and not walk around at night, and there's a special emphasis on this advice for women travelers. Women may have to deal with aggressive men, as well as catcalling, and avoiding deserted areas is essential. Advice from other travelers is to use Uber, especially at night, and to use the "Uber Comfort" option, as it has higher standards for the cars in use. While Uber doesn't serve the airport, you can still arrange for these rides in the city. One other thing to note is that solo travel to Guadalajara is highly discouraged. It still happens, but you're much better off going with other people.
TAP WATER RISK: HIGH
Guadalajara's tap water is simply not safe to drink. Many buildings use a rooftop storage system that can sometimes allow the water to become contaminated. Even if the water you have is supposedly filtered, you really need to use bottled water for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, and so on because contamination can happen at any point along the delivery route to your faucet.
Safest Places to Visit in Guadalajara
Tourist zones.
That’s really it.
Every piece of advice about where to go tells tourists to stay in tourist areas.
Research hotels (don’t try to stay in residential neighborhoods that you’re not familiar with) and aim for central areas; you may also want to check out the Chapalita and Providencia neighborhoods for hotels, as those areas have good reputations.
Places to Avoid in Guadalajara
Avoid anything deserted and anything outside tourist areas.
Avoid being out at night unless you can take Uber and are staying within tourist areas.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Guadalajara
- Strong grip on your phone. That can’t be emphasized enough.
- Never walk at night; take Uber instead.
- Travel with others if possible. If you still decide to go solo, you’ll have to be extra careful.
- Change money only at approved casas de cambio or banks, or use ATMs inside banks.
- Don’t let random people “help” you at the ATM.
- Don’t drink the tap water or use it for any hygiene or culinary purpose. Bottled water only.
- Keep valuables and your wallet/purse very secure.
- No flashy jewelry, and put the money you get from the ATM away immediately.
- Avoid deserted areas.
- Keep an eye on the weather report so you know if heavy rain is expected.
So... How Safe Is Guadalajara Really?
No one can ever guarantee that if you do X, Y, and Z that you’ll never have a problem with crime or danger when traveling.
Bad things can happen in safe cities, and you could travel to a dangerous city and have a great time with no problems.
The State Department’s Level 3 advisory for Jalisco doesn’t sound very good, and you should be very careful, especially outside major cities with known tourist zones.
But note that the State Department doesn’t place restrictions on U.S. government officials traveling in metro Guadalajara itself, along with Puerto Vallarta, Ajijic, Riviera Nayarit, and Chapala.
And there are plenty of anecdotal accounts of U.S. travelers going to Guadalajara and having no problem whatsoever.
On the flip side, there have been other claims from digital nomads living in the city that it was no longer a safe place to be.
So, overall, Guadalajara doesn’t look like a city you have to avoid.
It does look like one where you should take strict safety precautions to increase the chances of having a good trip.
How Does Guadalajara Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Guadalajara |
60 |
| San Miguel de Allende |
80 |
| Mexico City |
55 |
| Culiacan |
40 |
| Cabo San Lucas |
72 |
| Ensenada |
78 |
| Zacatecas |
60 |
 Prairie du Chien | 80 |
 Tunis | 55 |
 Leticia | 70 |
 Malmo | 78 |
| San Mateo | 84 |
| El Paso | 77 |
Useful Information
Visas
If you're a U.S. citizen, you won't need a visa to be in Mexico for fewer than 180 days. If you want to stay past that time, you'll need to be approved for a temporary resident visa, and you'd have to be approved ahead of time. However, anyone visiting Guadalajara from a country that doesn't require a visa still has to get an entry permit. This is also called a multiple immigration form, or FMM, and you can apply for it either before you go or when you arrive. You'll also have to pay a fee, but this is generally in the $46 range.
Currency
Guadalajara uses the Mexican peso and centavo (1 peso = 100 centavos). As of mid-January 2026, the exchange rate was at US$1 = MEX$17.99. The peso and centavo use the same symbols as the dollar and the cent. Change dollars to pesos at the exchange office at the airport, or use your ATM card to withdraw money in pesos (this option often has better rates). Be careful using ATMs in town, and try to use only those that are in banks. You can also find exchange offices (casas de cambio) in the city.
Weather
Guadalajara is subtropical but at a relatively high altitude -- 5,100 feet above sea level -- so the weather stays moderate through much of the year. January high temperatures in Fahrenheit average around 76 degrees, with lows in the mid-40s and moderate humidity. In May, the hottest month, highs average around 89F, and lows are in the upper 50s. Humidity in May averages 38%, but by July, the wettest month, the humidity can creep up into the 70% range. Layers are always best when you travel, but the city's climate doesn't necessitate clothing for very cold weather. Just be prepared with an umbrella and a sunhat at the same time.
Airports
If you fly into Guadalajara, there's only one airport serving the city. That's Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Airport, also known simply as Guadalajara Airport. It's located just south of the bulk of the city, and getting into town is easy. You can rent a car, of course, or you can arrange for an airport transfer. This is a transportation service that you can book through the airport; choose from a car, minivan, or two sizes of Sprinter vans, depending on the size of your party. Guadalajara Airport also offers a taxi booking service that uses a set fee instead of making you agree on a price with the driver. You'll often see advice from other travelers online to use this pre-arranged taxi service instead of trying to haggle with regular taxi drivers yourself. Currently, Uber does not travel to or from the airport.
Travel Insurance
You should get travel insurance before going to Guadalajara. While Mexico doesn't require you to have insurance, other than Mexican auto insurance if you plan to drive in the country, it's a very good idea to get as much coverage as you can. Given that Jalisco and Guadalajara have higher crime rates, the chances of something happening are higher. This doesn't mean something will happen, just that there's more of a chance, and insurance helps you be prepared.
Guadalajara Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
22 | 24 | 30 | 32 | 33 | 31 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 |
| Low °C |
7 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 5 |
| High °F |
72 | 75 | 86 | 90 | 91 | 88 | 82 | 82 | 82 | 82 | 81 | 81 |
| Low °F |
45 | 46 | 45 | 45 | 55 | 57 | 55 | 55 | 52 | 48 | 43 | 41 |
My wife and I went to Guadalajara for our 5 year anniversary and while I didn’t feel unsafe or uneasy, my wife did. She was tense the entire trip there. We had some issues with items being stolen out of our hotel room and a group of men following us a few times who didn’t speak English. I know she don’t want to ever go back but I wouldn’t mind it. I am not intimidated very easily.
Truthful.
Right . You’re a tough guy. A couple cartel guys, all hit men, would pose no problem for you.
GDL visit
There’s always one who has to act like the cartel is literally targeting US citizens and then only.
Don’t get involved or partake in shady stuff and you’ll be left alone. You can be held up, mugged, beat, etc. in ANY city in the world. Not everything is cartel cartel cartel.
Everything can be safe…it’s up to you
I think it might be more about where you stay and the activities you engage in. I’ve been traveling to Guadalajara constantly for the last six months. I pretty much stick to the nicest areas and I don’t go out at night. Best place to stay is obviously the Hyatt Regency and from there you can walk to any number of amazing shops and stores and really nice restaurants so I never felt the need to go further than that.
I speak Spanish my husband doesn’t . I want to go with him . He is American light skin . I hope people are friendly there with American citizens
Why would you go somewhere that your life is in danger? We are talking about a vacation. I do not understand why you would put your life in danger.
Yeah, like going to Detroit, Chicago, Houston, Atlanta, LA, NYC…..
Don’t believe the BS. If you don’t drink, don’t walk alone, don’t have a lot of bling on, act like you aren’t a gringo (even if you are pasty white) and stay in good neighborhoods, your chances of a mugging are probably less than any ‘multicultural’ city in Weimerica.
Uncertain
I loved the area when I traveled there back in 2008 but since all the issues with immigrants, I am a bit put off on going to Mexico. I am not sure if it would be safe. I know most areas in Mexico are risky but usually cities like this are okay. Anyone go more recently know?
Just went in July 2020, it was safe, reminds me of old school mexico. Went to the plaza of mariachis at night, it was like downtown LA in the eighties lots of passed out drunks and drug addicts just best to avoid this area
Safe And A Must!
I have visited downtown Guadalajara a few times as an adult. It has certainly changed since I was a kid. These last couple of times I did not feel unsafe. I feel you need to be street smart as you are in any major metropolitan area. Being from Chicago this was a no brainer for me. Be smart and don’t look like a tourist and fumble with maps and smart phones. Plan your sites and enjoy a stroll. Make sure you’re in an area with lots of people. I would consider this a safe trip and will return again.
Big Navel
My wife ate tomato soup out of my unusually large bellybutton in Guadalajara. It was a great trip that we’ll remember.
Excellent
jealous of navel
ok then! got to try this lol
Wretched
Understandable. I live and work in GDL and have been held up. It Is becoming a nasty place with half-witted, obnoxious thugs driving around in their gruesome gringo-style pickups and shitty banda music everywhere. I am a Mexican Citizen, and being quite honest, would not recommend the place to say, Calgary résidents or peaceful tourists from Western Europe. Sad, but true: Narcos, corruption, and vulgarity prevail. GDL Is not the city of Bing Crosby golfing and Chapala visits anymore. It Is an oafish, provincial bastion of Sinaloa. Sad, very sad.
You’re so full of it. Mexicans should be glad they got rid of you. I’ve been to Guadalajara many times and haven’t had any problems. Many things to enjoy as long as you don’t act stupid, which is the same everywhere.
You speak the truth my friend!
Don’t judge
Juan could have been VERY traumatized if he were in fact held up. His response appears extreme but it is important to consider the reason he reacted this way. Many locals are angry with the cartel and have a right to be fed up with cngj. Trying to take the high ground over a local sounds arrogant, selfish, and insensitive to their reality, which could be very painful if they grew up in one of gdl’s tougher neighborhoods. He clearly states that he still lives there. Guadalajara is a very nice city. Stay away from the area past La calzada independencia in the city center and Calle priciliano Sanchez at night. Also, ten blocks north of the cathedral on Pedro Loza should be a no go area. Try carnes garibaldi, tejuino, and a torta ahogada while you are there. Cheers.
Exactly F. Parr. Like most big cities in the US if you go looking for trouble or participate in illegal activities then you are going to put yourself at risk. I have visited several times and never felt unsafe. Something can happen to you in any big city in the world just be aware of your surroundings and you’ll have a pleasant time. People love Paris but I had a bag stolen from me as I was walking from the Gare du Nord to my Airbnb and I am a physically large guy. I didn’t feel any safer there than I do when I go to Guadalajara. The danger is all blown out of proportion from the American media especially when most large US cities are just as bad. And remember Cartels most likely wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for the huge drug habit of the US which is prevalent in all walks of life here and not just in minority communities.
Lives under a bridge
Another nasty troll here to attack people from behind the screen. I’m talking about you Parr, not the OP.
Second trip
This is my 2nd trip here, and I am pleased with my visit. As in any visit outside one’s
comfort zone, be ever vigilant and have a way out of any situation. Go where there is plenty of people traffic, and most of all…look and act like a “native”. For the most part
while visiting the many tourist venues that can be found, the people are friendly and polite. Of course, there’s always the few rude ones that don’t have any sense of respect for others, ie, cutting in front of you while you are taking a photo, or forcing themselves to the front of the line. Overall, I’ve enjoyed my trip. Gracias,
Roberto de California.
Awesome local experience
I just came back from staying in a house in the Santa Maria/Talpita colonia – Was able to walk around that area day and night with no issues of feeling unsafe. Ventured off to Zona Medrano and multiple other tianquis of lots of people moving through small spaces.
As in all big cities – be aware of your surroundings. But ultimately I’ve felt much uncomfortable in several areas here in the states.
Check out this undiscovered gem in Mexico
I just returned from my first trip to Guadalajara. I was pleasantly surprised at the charm the city exudes. Lots of lovely colonial architecture that goes on for block after block. I stayed at the Holiday Inn in Centro Ciudad (221 Juarez) which was well located for walking to the cathedral, museums, and other areas of interest. People were consistently friendly and helpful. American tourists were few and far between. Hotel couldn’t do currency exchanges but loads of stores on Ave were easily available with good rates and flexible hours. Museum of Guadalajara was a highlight containing exhibits on paleontology, history, and fine art. Interjet Airlines now flies non-stop from several North American cities, offering low rates (and surprising amount of legroom on its planes)
A wonderful experience
I visited Guadalajara many times and stayed for months at the time. The experience has always been exceptional. I love the people, the ambiance, the climate. I always felt safe and never had any problems. I am recommending this city because I have personally experienced. Take your time, rent long term and enjoy the in·cred·i·ble life in this beautiful city.
What parts of the city can you recommend staying for me? I’m seasoned traveler, low key and speak spanish and want to avoid gringo tourist areas. Ive heard maybe chapalita, col americana, tlaquepeque…?Ty
It's a great safe City!
It is a great safe City when you travel you don’t go to the Hood rat areas! travel to the tourist areas only they’re very safe! mind your own business enjoy the city be happy nobody wants you! nobody needs anything from you! enjoy your yourself!
I am from southern California Orange County
my parents are from Guadalajara so as a young adult back in the 90’s my interest for the beautiful city struck me
Been visiting Guadalajara since at least 4 times a year for at least 3 weeks to a month at time,
Never once had an issue of any sort
I been just about all over the world and i have to say Guadalajara is where I feel at home
just be smart and be aware of your surroundings
I feel more unsafe in
LOS ANGELES
NEW YORK CITY
LAS VEGAS
CHICAGO
etc etc etc just to name a few
Me and My boyfriend who is White are thinking about going to zapopan Jalisco do they pay extra attention to white Caucasion?
I am a white Canadian woman who spent quite a bit of time living in Mexico. I visited Zapopan twice. No one looked at me twice, I didn’t feel that I stood out at all. I walked alone at night to the store, and didn’t feel unsafe. Although I don’t recommend walking alone at night any where. As for your husband I am sure he will be just fine. Always use common sense!
Anything can happen to anyone anywhere
I haven’t been, but hope to go to Guadalajara one day. I live for a few months of the year in zihuatanejo with my Mexican fiancé. Then work in the US to pay for Mexico. I love it there and I want to be there all the time!!! I want to travel to numerous cities all over Mexico. I love CDMX!! Just stay in Roma Norte and you can be out at night,safely,too. Guanajuato was gorgeous and is my pick above SanMigel. Mexico is my second home. Love,love,love it!!!!!
Safe for Mexicans
I am from Mexico and every part feels safe
Who guards the guards?….
Stayed with friends in Guadalajara in the 80’s for six months. Only problem I had was with undercover police who beat up my friend who was Mexican and from there. His father was in Govt, and recognised them. Also, had my passport confiscated when went to get extension. Told to call back next day. Official said they had lost it, but I saw it on his desk and snatched it back. He disappeared for 5 mins and returned telling me to be out of the country by Monday or I would be arrested. Left on Sunday pm, fortunately, and later learned they had turned up in jeeps with guns looking for me Monday morning.
Have a great holiday ! Heard it’s gotten a lot worse…….
Any watch outs?
I am about to visit for 8 days. Staying at Hotel Morales. Any watch outs? It’s my first trip there do not sure about specific areas
It’s hard to ignore the beauty of Guadalajara, but with all the warnings about safety and cartel activity, I can’t help but feel a bit uneasy about visiting right now.
It’s such a shame about the safety concerns because the views of those mountains from the city really do take your breath away.
Didn’t expect to feel this way after reading about Guadalajara; it sounds stunning, but with all the safety warnings, I’m honestly torn about whether it’s worth the trip.
Do you think the beautiful sights in Guadalajara make it worth navigating the safety concerns, or does that overshadow the experience?
The vibes in Guadalajara are awesome, just make sure to keep your wits about you and enjoy those mountain views!
Even with the warnings, I found the beauty of Guadalajara hard to resist, especially the stunning views of the mountains; just stay aware and enjoy the vibrant culture!
It’s surprising to hear that such a beautiful place has its risks; I had no idea about the safety concerns until now.
Guadalajara’s vibrant culture and stunning mountain views are definitely worth experiencing, but staying aware and cautious can make all the difference when exploring this captivating city.
I’ve been to Guadalajara myself, and while the safety concerns are real, sticking to the main tourist spots, especially those around the vibrant city center, made my trip both safe and memorable.