Is Mexico safe?

I’m sure that is a question a lot of people are asking and I’m sure it keeps a lot from visiting. The answer certainly depends on your comfort level.

We drove past the border and kept driving past Tijuana. Also, we really didn’t have any interest in stopping there and our guidebook said that you don’t have to register your arrival until you are further south.

I will say that Baja California, outside of the cities, seems a bit more remote. Also, we didn’t experience any issues. However, be aware that as you drive back north you will encounter vehicle checks, which are looking for drug smuggling.

Additionally, I do know someone who rented a car in Puerto Vallarta and encountered a scam involving the police to extract money, so it is a possibility.

Finally, one of the biggest safety issues is driving the two lane highway along with the large trucks. I would try and avoid driving at night.

Beach Camping

All of the beaches in Mexico are public, which means there are a lot of great spots for tent and RV camping.

Playa El Requeson was rated one of the top beaches. Additionally, it has a sandbar connecting the island to the mainland, which provides a magical backdrop to the ocean on each side.

San Ignacio Whale Watching

Whale watching in Baja California was definitely the highlight of the trip. The grey whale migration occurs here from December through April. Also, late in the season you might see some of the babies as well.

We chose to take a tour in San Ignacio. However, you can view the whales near Guerrero Negro. Also, the small boats get you up close and personal in a way you just can’t experience on larger whale watching ships.

Additionally, we also saw seals and dolphins that would race our little motor boat in and out of the cove.

San Ignacio Cave Paintings

Additionally, while we were in San Ignacio, we took a tour. It led through canyons to view some cave paintings. Also, there was beautiful scenery to trek through the canyons. However, just be aware that there were some wet areas so make sure to have sandals or water shoes.

La Paz

We stayed in La Paz. Additionally, while we were there we did a kayaking trip to the wonderful Isla Espiritu Santo.

Valle de Guadalupe Wine Region

If you are a fan of Napa and Sonoma in the US, then you definitely need to plan a trip for Valle de Guadalupe. I know that Mexico doesn’t conjure up wine country. However, the same Spanish missionaries who brought grapes to the new world, traveled south from California to Baja California.

The higher elevation outside of Ensenada offers a good climate for growing grapes. Also, the smaller, family atmosphere is a really fun experience for wine tastings.

Cabo San Lucas

The drive south ends in Cabo San Lucas. We were there over New Years Eve. Also, Cabo San Lucas gets the well deserved reputation as a party town.

However, there are some nice beaches and you can view the beautiful Cabo rock arch.

Cabo Nearby Village Pottery

There are a few artists stops nearby Cabo San Lucas. First, there is Todos Santos, which is has a lot of art vendors. Second, there is a nearby village that was listed in our travel guide, with local women who made pottery.

Cabo Pulmo National Park

Cabo Pulmo is home to one of the few reefs on the west coast of North America. If you are a fan of snorkeling, it is a must visit. Additionally, bring your own gear and you can snorkel to the reef from directly off of the beach.

ALSO CONSIDER VISITING THESE NEARBY AREAS

Check out some of the other sights in the International page.