How Safe Is Waco for Travel? (2020 Updated) ⋆ Travel Safe

Safety Index:

United States : Safety by City

Waco is a city in the Blackland Prairie region of north-central Texas, in the United States of America.

Waco is best known in Texas for being the home of Baylor University, the largest Baptist university in the world, chartered under the Republic of Texas.

The city is known for its vast city park – Cameron Park – with over 400 acres of trees, trails, and nature that sit in the heart of Waco.

Also in Waco, there are a vast number of museums and galleries, musical institutions where you can listen to beautiful classical and modern music.

A lot of different theaters.

Waco can be called the center of intelligent and Bohemian life in the region.

Warnings & Dangers in Waco

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Waco is a medium-security city. If you use common sense, do not walk late at night and alone around the city, avoid contact with suspicious people, and do not attract too much attention - you can be here quite safely.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW

In Waco, they often move in their cars. However, you can use public transport. Only it is better not to ride it at night and the end stations. Taxis are safe if you use licensed services.

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Pickpockets are found in tourist places and in Cameron Park. Usually, they work in pairs and one of the thieves is trying to distract you with questions or a request. Be careful and keep your eyes on your belongings.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

There is a risk of tornadoes in Waco. Typically, local authorities notify residents in advance. Closely monitors local news if you find yourself in the city during the tornado season. Explore the situation in the city before your visit here.

MUGGING RISK : HIGH

The risk of severe attacks and robberies in Waco exists, especially in disadvantaged areas. You should avoid visiting Cameron Park at night and on the outskirts of the city. It is better to travel in a group than alone. Watch your surroundings. Do not get involved in the showdown of drug dealers. Always be careful.

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

Terrorists can try to carry out attacks in the Waco region. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. You should monitor media reports and be vigilant at all times. Study the political environment before your trip here.

SCAMS RISK : LOW

Petty fraud is not so common in Waco. However, there are times when attackers call or send emails in order to find out your personal data. It can be fake pranks or lotteries. You should be alert and not share personal information with strangers.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM

It is not very safe for women to travel in this city alone. It is better to walk in the company and not stay in dangerous places at night. Otherwise, using common sense will help you stay safe in this city at any time of the day or night.

So... How Safe Is Waco Really?

Waco is generally a safe city to visit.

The crime index here ranges from medium to low.

The main problems of the city are theft, hacking and car theft, vandalism, corruption, and minor issues with the drug trade.

Visitors should exercise reasonable caution.

That said, the most violent crime occurs in residential areas, away from most areas visitors may visit.

If you do find yourself in such an area, use normal caution, and do not draw attention to yourself.

It is strongly advised not to be at Cameron Park at night alone.

Also, the area surrounding Baylor University is pretty dangerous at night, so it’s advisable not to go near the area around Baylor unless you are in a group.

Sometimes there is a risk of tornadoes.

However, the city has an alert for this case.

You need to follow local news to know what to do in case of a strong tornado.

The rest of the city is safe, especially if you avoid the dark streets and don’t walk alone after sunset.

Do not get involved in drunken fights and quarrels of drug dealers.

Remember that drugs are illegal in this city.

If you were attacked, give the attackers what they require and contact the police.

Useful Information

Visas - Visitors to the United States must obtain a visa from one of the United States diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries or Visa Waiver Program countries. A valid passport is a must.
Currency - The United States dollar is the official currency of the United States. It has a sign: $ and a code: USD. Also, it abbreviated US$. One dollar is divided into 100 cents (Symbol: ¢).
Weather - The best times to visit Waco for ideal weather are mid-March to mid-May and October to December. The average temperatures in Waco vary drastically. Considering humidity, temperatures feel nice some year, but often too hot in the summer and cold in the winter with a low chance of precipitation most of the year.
Airports - Waco Regional Airport is 8 km northwest of Waco, in McLennan County, Texas. The airport is a 15-20 minute drive from downtown and central Waco.
Travel Insurance - The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

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