Mexico : Safety by City
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- Sayulita
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- Zihuatanejo
Matamoros is a major, fast-growing industrial city in Tamaulipas, Mexico, located on the Rio Grande border opposite Brownsville, Texas.
Situated in northeastern Mexico on the southern bank of the Rio Grande, just 28 miles from the Gulf of Mexico.
With a population over 540,000, it is a key manufacturing (maquiladora) and agricultural hub with deep roots in the Mexican-American War and Texas Revolution.
Known for its industrial sector, including maquiladoras (manufacturing plants), as well as cotton, sugarcane.
It serves as a major commercial port of entry.
It also has a significant commercial, rail, and highway connection to interior Mexico.
It features the Museo Casamata (a 19th-century fort) and the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Tamaulipas.
Playa Baghdad is a popular local beach.
The question is whether the city is safe for visitors.
Let’s explore and see.
Warnings & Dangers in Matamoros
OVERALL RISK: HIGH
Matamoros is considered highly unsafe for travel, with the U.S. Department of State issuing a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory due to widespread crime, kidnapping risks, and cartel violence. It is regarded as one of the most dangerous cities in Tamaulipas, where travelers face high risks of armed robbery and carjacking. There is a significant risk of violent crime, including murder, armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping, which can affect bystanders or lead to mistaken identity. The border region is known for violent clashes between rival criminal groups.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH
Organized criminal groups often hijack buses and private vehicles to kidnap passengers for ransom, with specific targeting of those with U.S. connections. Unregistered taxis ("taxi marron") or unmarked vehicles pose a high risk, with the potential for robbery, assault, or being caught in criminal activity. Armed members of criminal groups may set up checkpoints, especially outside of major city centers.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
Criminal groups often target tourists, private, and commercial vehicles, especially along the border. While opportunistic pickpocketing occurs, the primary risks are violent crimes like robbery and armed assault, with a low city safety index of 40.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
This area is not known to have much happen in the way of natural disasters. There is a twenty percent chance of a cyclone within the coming ten years, but other than that, this area appears to be weather-safe.
MUGGING RISK: HIGH
Matamoros presents a severe risk for mugging, armed robbery, and kidnapping due to intense, ongoing cartel violence. Heavily armed criminal groups operate, often targeting tourists and travelers. Risk is particularly high on roads and during the night. Criminals frequently target individuals for kidnapping.
TERRORISM RISK: HIGH
The danger is mainly from domestic terrorism, especially from the cartels. The city is dominated by, and contested by, warring cartels, leading to unpredictable violence and shootouts. Criminal groups frequently target individuals, including U.S. citizens, for ransom. Criminals target public and private buses, as well as private vehicles, particularly along major routes leading into the city. Local police have limited capacity to prevent or respond to crime.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
The one type of risk that seems to stand out in regard to scams is credit card theft. There is a large chance that many outdoor ATMs have devices to get your card information. There have been some reports of romance scams and other scams involving the internet, but these are few. You may encounter scammers who try to sell you items on the street where the value is low and the price high.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH
Women travelers face significant risks, including armed robbery, extortion, and being caught in violent shootouts, making it extremely unsafe for solo or casual travel. The area is dominated by criminal organizations, leading to frequent gunfights that can occur in public places like restaurants and malls, posing a high risk of being a bystander. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents have been kidnapped in the region. While tourists are not always the primary target, they can be victims of mistaken identity or violence.
TAP WATER RISK: HIGH
Tap water in Matamoros, like most of Mexico, is not considered safe for direct consumption by visitors due to risks of bacteria, parasites, and viruses. While treated at the source, potential contamination occurs in distribution pipes or residential storage tanks.
Safest Places to Visit in Matamoros
Matamoros is located in a high-risk area (Level 4, “Do Not Travel” advisory) due to crime and kidnapping, making no area completely safe.
However, reputable, secure hotels like City Express By Marriott, Best Western Hotel Plaza, and well-rated spots downtown are generally considered the safest options for visitors.
Technically, there is currently no guaranteed safe place in the city.
Places to Avoid in Matamoros
Currently, the entire city can be considered dangerous.
Upper-end hotels and the airport are about as safe as you get, and the airport can be iffy.
It is best to avoid the city completely if possible.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Matamoros
- Share your location. Make sure there is someone who knows exactly where you will be at any given time. Let them know your schedule each day and set up check-in times throughout the day. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Use Only Authorized Taxis. Use radio-dispatched taxis from trusted, reputable, and secure sites (sitios) rather than hailing cars on the street. Stick to federal toll roads (“cuotas”), which are generally safer than free, untolled roads (“libres”).
- Avoid border crossings. Crossings in this area are especially ripe for danger. When possible, choose another border crossing option. Plan all travel between cities during daylight hours, avoid remote areas, and stay on toll roads (cuotas) rather than free roads (libres).
- Drink bottled water. While the ice in hotels is normally made with purified water, you may not want to risk it. It is also advisable not to even brush your teeth with the tap water. Showering is fine.
- Use only indoor ATMs. Criminals have become very proficient at garnering card info from outdoor ATMs. Also, using an outdoor location places you at greater risk of being robbed.
- Keep documents safe. Keep copies of passports and important documents in a secure place. Hotel safes are the best place for this. Carry only copies with you.
- Stay aware. Keep alert to the things going on around you. While you can’t anticipate everything that might happen, staying alert and listening to instincts will go a long way to keeping you safe.
- Don’t wander alone. Make sure you are with at least one trustworthy person at all times. Don’t wander at night at all. When possible, visit any sites with guided tours that are verified as legitimate. Your hotel will be helpful with regard to booking transportation and verifying the legitimacy of tours.
- Listen to the news. Many situations that will warrant caution will be aired on the news. Avoid any areas that are mentioned as being hot spots. The news will be helpful to learn of any weather that is dangerous, and it will help you to learn of any areas that may be hotspots for violence at the moment.
- Avoid demonstrations. Very often a demonstration will become violent. Stay away from any that you encounter. The best thing to do in case of this type of unrest is to return to your hotel.
So... How Safe Is Matamoros Really?
Matamoros is extremely dangerous right now.
While there is no immediate danger of natural disasters, cartel violence, armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping, with risks of being caught in crossfire are common.
Violent crime, including cartel activity, shooting incidents, and risks to travelers, is high, making it strongly advised to avoid this area.
Women traveling alone can be at added risk, and it is something that should be avoided.
If travel is necessary despite advisories, it is recommended to stay in secure areas, limit movement, travel during daylight hours, and closely monitor local media for security updates.
How Does Matamoros Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Matamoros |
35 |
| Saltillo |
70 |
| Sayulita |
80 |
| Ixtapa |
70 |
| Juarez |
28 |
| Valladolid |
90 |
| Puerto Morelos |
80 |
 Harlingen | 75 |
| Champaign | 73 |
| Sun Prairie | 84 |
| Marathon | 78 |
| Mt. Laurel | 76 |
| St. Joseph | 47 |
Useful Information
Visas
You will not need a visa for stays less than 180 days but you will need an FMM (Migration Form). It is available online or at the border. This policy can change quickly. For up-to-date, specific visa application procedures (such as for employment or long-term stays), it is advised to check the official Mexican consulate website.
Currency
The official currency in Matamoros, Mexico, is the Mexican Peso (MXN). For the best exchange rates, avoid airport kiosks and hotels; instead, use bank ATMs, local currency exchange offices, or order currency from your home bank. Local exchange offices, such as those listed on Yelp, generally offer better rates than US banks.
Weather
Matamoros, Tamaulipas, features a semiarid climate characterized by mild, dry winters and hot, humid summers, with significant temperature variations throughout the year. The hot season lasts from late April to August, with average highs often exceeding 90 degrees F, while winter temperatures are pleasant, often in the 60s-70 degrees F. January and February are the coldest months, with an average high temperature of 72 degrees F and nightly lows of 51 degrees F. The hottest month is August with a temperature range of 76 degrees F at night to 95 degrees F during the day. Dress to remain cool, regardless of the time of year. You will want lightweight materials such as cotton. Rain isn't frequent, at most five to eight days a month in September and October, so not bringing rain gear isn't a big deal. During the winter, you may want a lightweight jacket for the evenings.
Airports
Matamoros is primarily served by General Servando Canales International Airport (MAM/MMMA), located about 5.5 miles from the city center. It handles domestic flights, primarily to Mexico City via Aeromexico and VivaAerobus, and serves as the main gateway for the area, located near the U.S.-Mexico border. This airport offers duty-free shops, restaurants, ATMs, and Wi-Fi. It is accessible by taxi and bus. However, it is recommended that you avoid taxis and instead rely on an app service such as Uber.
Travel Insurance
While not legally required, travel insurance is highly recommended for trips to Matamoros, Mexico, to cover potential medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. U.S. health insurance is not widely accepted, making medical coverage essential. Additionally, if driving, Mexican auto insurance is legally required. If driving across the border, you must purchase a Mexican liability auto insurance policy, as U.S. policies are not valid, according to AAA. While not required, insurance offers a critical safety net for unexpected issues. Look for plans with medical expense coverage, trip interruption, and emergency evacuation. For peace of mind, obtaining a policy with at least $50,000 in emergency medical coverage is recommended.
Matamoros Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
22 | 25 | 27 | 29 | 31 | 33 | 34 | 34 | 32 | 29 | 26 | 23 |
| Low °C |
12 | 15 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 20 | 16 | 13 |
| High °F |
72 | 77 | 81 | 84 | 88 | 91 | 93 | 93 | 90 | 84 | 79 | 73 |
| Low °F |
54 | 59 | 64 | 68 | 73 | 75 | 75 | 75 | 73 | 68 | 61 | 55 |
Visit to a Matamoros
Went to Matamoros and found all this “scare propaganda”
To be pure BS. Yes- they see gringos coming and charge you more – but really – they can use the $20 bucks better than you. The Mexican nationals are caring, kind and common humans. Don’t believe the scare propaganda. As with any big city in the world – be smart and pay attention. But don’t begrudge the “guide” charging you a few bucks to show you around.
When did you go? I’m planning on going with 3 kids and 2 other family members. Is is just to drop off my nephews with their grandma because my cousin will be working. They said they live 30 mins from the boarder. I’m scared because I have never used this boarder and the stories of kids being kidnapped scares me. Please let me know any information you might have for me. Thank you.
Just don’t mess with anyone or do anything dumb and you’ll be good.
Good food
Crossed into Matamoros Just to have lunch and wander around on the motorcycle for a day, met very friendly people while walking around. Not one problem, spent the night at a hotel and left the motorcycle out over night in plain view, it was there in the morning. Went west to Reynosa the next morning without a problem. September 2021
Crime !!
Be sure to have your life insure paid up to date. Also, don’t take your beneficiary with you. Really, why would you bring children into a war zone.
Go with confidence
Look I’m White from Kentucky and.i go alot but I live near the border now but don’t.be fearful be aware be prepared no need to be scared your fears only bring.it.near..Fear isnt real it something your mind.creates..Danger is real..But be prepared for any situation..But you only.hear the.bad stories I’ve been there several times..Don’t.take.pictures.be.lowkeyed and don’t be.seen as weak..worried be decisive. Stay alert don’t look for those things you don’t.need to look for.
Crime
Do not go into Matamoros. It’s dirty, crime everywhere. Do you really need trinkets.
My wife’s family is from Matamoros so we visit frequently. From the time we cross into matamoros to the time we leave I always feel safe and secured. No scamming, kind and caring people. Military presence is abundant as well. I do advise if you are a tourist and want to get some “souvenirs” go to this store/restaurant called Garcia’s. Staff speaks English and are super friendly. Great prices on goods and it’s only a few minutes from the border crossing.
I don’t see a date for this review. When was this?
Great Place
I go to Matamoros all the time. I am a gringo man 6 ft 3. I have never had a problem except once I drove my vehicle and was stopped by two federales who checked my license. I gave them fifty dollars and they let me go and were extremely friendly after that. I have never felt threatened but my advise is walk across border and stay on main streets. And like any where or anyone be polite and courteous to people and they will be that way to u. Do be a stupid American A hole. And college kids don’t drink too much or talk trash to locals. Show respect. Speaking Spanish even poquito is advised. They see that as respectful but it’s not necessary. Use your head and manners and you will be fine. Garcia’s is a great and safe place to eat. They have armed guards and fenced in if u want to drive there . They will watch and protect your vehicles. The kidnapping is the most dangerous possibility and crossfire can happen. But if u stay in market and on main streets you will be fine. Also it’s always better to travel with others you are less of a target if your in a group. Do not carry guns into Mexico. Also great place to buy gifts, alcohol, and prescriptions like Xanax.
Spring 2021
I have visited Matamoros several times on foot without incidence and found the locals to be gentle and even subdued. You will be confronted by many who wish to sell things like chewing gum, explaining they need money to eat, but it is not high pressure.
Buses are easy to catch and cheap to ride, but very bumpy and nerve-wracking in traffic. If you want an overview of the whole city you can catch one near the International Bridge and ride until it returns to the same spot, witnessing the fascinating as well as the heartbreaking.
The worst experience I had was when I drove my vehicle across, which I will never do again. I failed to lock my doors and an unpleasant man climbed in at a parking lot and grabbed a bag of chips from the back seat and demanded money. I did not feel threatened, more annoyed, but the realization this could have been worse made those who love me implore me not to return alone.
Matamoros pharmacy purchase
Well it’s been sev yrs since I went to Matamoros but no real incident. I drove on this one occasion and went in a pharmacy where I bought Retin A for a great price. My fairly newer car was being cased by a young teen when I left but he didn’t bother me after that and I just left with my good pharmacy purchase
Contact me
Can you tell me more ?
Right next to Matamoros, in nuevo progreso I walked on the main street when all of a sudden I was bitten by a dog in the back of my leg without a warning growl or bark.
It was a brown dog, a stray dog and she backed off after I turned around. when I came back home and inspected my leg I found three penetrations. the treatment cost me $340 plus five trips to the Harlingen hospital because in all of Brownsville no rabies treatment could be found. it took 6 rabies injections and one tetanus.
this is not a reply, but an additional information on the above rabies treatment. i later found out that my rabies treatment cost me over a thousand dollars, while my medicare was charged over 40’000 dollars. the medicine alone was over $36’000 which i find totally ridiculous because for the same treatment 3 years earlier in china the entire charge was us.$10.00
No worries
My husband and I drove to Matamoras for me to have surgery and had a pleasant experience.
I received better care than any surgery I’ve had in the states, plus it’s way less expensive there.
My husband even walked around shopping and got food no problem. Were white, not sure if that matters or not. Anyway, everyone we came in contact with was very nice.
They do appreciate it if you speak Spanish, which ours was terrible but we tried.
It’s overall a semi-decent area.
Don’t listen to these reviews, you’ll get knocked off. Decoy to draw you in and get kidnapped. Two ppl just got killed
We go to Matamoros every few weeks. We have not had any problems. The bridge lines to return (driving) can be quite long, however. If you walk, there is a restaurant right next to the Border called Garcia’s. They have great fine dining, a pharmacy, and a curio shop. I avoid the local police, especially the Transito police. The military is present at the bridge. That is the law enforcement entity that I trust the most. Matamoros is a historical city with ties to the American Civil War. They have a nice miliary museum called Casamata. There are also a lot of historic buildings in Matamoros, if you are in to border architecture.
Strolling through The Juarez Market was such a fun experience; it’s amazing how many unique finds you can discover while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Strolling through the Juarez Market was such a treat, especially when I stumbled upon those gorgeous handmade hats! It felt like a mini adventure with all the colorful sights and sounds around.
Did you really just drop a fun fact about a beach named after a city in Iraq? What’s the story behind that?
I had no idea Matamoros had such a rich history, especially with its ties to the Mexican-American War. The mix of industry and culture really surprised me, and I never thought I’d find myself curious about the local beach scene there.
It’s funny how everyone talks about the safety of Matamoros like it’s some magical place; I guess the thrill of dodging a few sketchy situations while enjoying the beach can really spice up a day at Playa Baghdad.
Yeah, “let’s explore and see” is exactly what I told myself too, right before double checking my route back from Playa Baghdad three times and keeping my phone death-gripped the whole walk.
Walking along Playa Baghdad as the sun dipped toward the Gulf, the salty breeze and the distant rumble of maquiladora trucks somehow put me at ease, more than I expected, and I left feeling oddly reassured about spending time there.
¿En serio crees que Matamoros sea seguro para visitantes cuando estuve en Playa Bagdad al atardecer y me dio mala espina verla con poca policía y calles medio desiertas?
Went to Playa Baghdad at sunset and felt fine walking around near the Museo Casamata, but nights around the industrial areas made me nervous because the streets were oddly empty.